DIMAPUR, OCRTOBER 7 (MExN): The third edition of the St. Joseph University (SJU) Trophy commenced on October 7. This year, twenty-four teams from colleges and universities across Nagaland have registered to compete.
The inaugural ceremony was moderated by K Livikali Yeptho, Assistant Professor in the Department of Management. The event began with a prayer led by Rev. Fr. B. Y. Augustin, Campus Manager, invoking blessings for a successful tournament. Prof. Charles Ezung, Dean of Student Affairs, extended a warm welcome to participants, encouraging them to embrace sportsmanship throughout the event.
Zhaleo Rio, IAS (Retd.), MLA and Advisor to the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department of Nagaland, attended as the special guest. In his address, Rio acknowledged the significant role of the Catholic Church in Nagaland’s educational sector and praised St. Joseph University for its commitment to quality education. He urged students to compete with dedication, integrity, and fair play, highlighting the holistic educational experience offered at SJU.
A highlight of the ceremony was a stunning human pyramid display by students from the Department of Physical Education, drawing enthusiastic applause from the crowd. Dr. Kinitoli H. Yeptho, Dean of Social Sciences, expressed gratitude on behalf of the SJU community in her vote of thanks.
The ceremony concluded with the University Anthem, sung by the SJU choir, followed by the ceremonial torch lighting, officially inaugurating the SJU Trophy. Lanumongla Jamir, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Education, led the oath-taking ceremony, joined by team captains from the participating institutions.