All the students in the exchange program took part in each other’s cultural performances, which they learned during the three-day event.
Assam-Nagaland student exchange programme concludes
Morung Express News
Tzürangkong | February 1
With the aim of fostering cross-border communal harmony between Assam and Nagaland, a three-day Assam-Nagaland Student Exchange Program, themed “Discovering Neighbours,” was held from January 30 and successfully concluded today, February 1, 2025, at Govt. High School, Tzürangkong. Organized by the Border Peace Coordination Committee (Assam-Nagaland) in collaboration with the Friendship Forum (Tembayim Committee, TATT, Tzürangkong) and the District Administrations of Jorhat and Mokokchung, the program aimed to strengthen cross-border ties and promote peaceful coexistence.
The culmination program featured Thsuvisie Phoji, NCS, Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung, who, in a brief address, appreciated the initiative, stating that it was a significant moment not only for those living in the border areas but also for the people of both states. He acknowledged the presence of certain antisocial elements attempting to disrupt the peace but emphasized that the people of Assam and Nagaland are not enemies but brothers and sisters who must continue striving for peaceful coexistence while rooting out such disruptive elements.
Calling Assam the “big brother,” he acknowledged Nagaland’s deep reliance on the state of Assam and expressed gratitude for the support.
He further stated that such initiatives should not be limited to the border regions but extended across both states to eliminate hatred and miscommunication through meaningful exchanges.
Phoji also addressed the long-standing border disputes between Assam and Nagaland, which are currently pending in the Supreme Court. However, he noted that both state governments are actively working toward an out-of-court settlement to resolve the issue amicably. He expressed hope that initiatives like this could help bridge the gap between the two communities.
The Deputy Commissioner also regretted the absence of his Jorhat counterpart, who was scheduled to attend but was unable to participate due to restrictions from higher authorities.
Addressing the students, he urged them to cherish the memories of the exchange program and let the bond of friendship continue for a lifetime. He also encouraged students and parents attending the event to become messengers of peace between Assam and Nagaland.
The event featured a welcome speech by Pangertuba, President of Tzürangkong Students’ Union, a cultural dance performance by student delegations from both states, and a vote of thanks delivered by Er. Temsu Wathi, Coordinator, Border Peace Coordination Committee (A-N).
A total of 30 students from two schools in Assam participated alongside 30 students from Govt. High School, Tzürangkong. The Assam students along with their parents were hosted by families in Chungtiayimsen, Watiyim, and teachers of the host school. Over the three-day program, participants engaged in sports, cultural exchanges, talent shows, and picnics.
According to Er. Temsu Wathi, this exchange program was the first of its kind and was crowd-funded. He announced that next year, the Naga students delegation will be invited by the Assam side, expressing hope that it will become an annual event.
