National Teachers’ Award 2026 recipient Rokosekho Ronald Meru received a warm welcome at Dimapur Airport after being honoured by President Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi
DIMAPUR — A warm reception from family members awaited Rokosekho Ronald Meru at Dimapur Airport on Sunday following his return from New Delhi, where he received the National Teachers’ Award 2026 from President Droupadi Murmu.
Meru, a History teacher at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Sechu Zubza, was among 48 school teachers selected for the prestigious national award, which was presented on the occasion of Teachers’ Day on September 5.
The 53-year-old teacher from Khonoma village has been in the teaching profession for 24 years. Prior to his posting at GHSS Sechu Zubza in 2024, he served at Government Primary School (GPS), Khonoma, and GHSS Pungro in Kiphire, where he spent 10 years.
Speaking to media persons upon his arrival, Meru described the recognition by the Ministry of Education as an honour and blessing, while attributing his achievement to the support and encouragement of colleagues, teachers, senior officers and the communities where he had served.
Also read: Ronald Meru of Nagaland selected for National Teachers Award 2026
He particularly acknowledged the people of Pungro, saying their kindness, support and cooperation during his 10-year tenure had contributed significantly to his journey as a teacher.
He also expressed gratitude to the staff and community of his present school at Sechu Zubza for supporting and encouraging in his initiatives.
Asked about the contributions that led to his selection for the national award, Meru said his approach had always been to go beyond classroom teaching.
He cited that his efforts towards reducing student dropouts, engaging with community members, strengthening school administration and involving the community in developmental and supportive activities as some of the initiatives undertaken during his teaching career.
Meru, asserted that a teacher’s responsibility extends beyond completing the prescribed syllabus and includes contributing to the overall development of students and supporting them throughout their educational journey.
Recalling the challenges he faced during his career, Meru said his posting to Pungro, a remote area near the Myanmar border in Kiphire district, was initially challenging.
However, he chose to accept the posting and moved there with his wife and children, who stayed with him throughout his 10-year tenure.
On the selection process for the National Teachers’ Award, Meru explained that a teacher must first receive the District Teachers’ Award and subsequently the State Teachers’ Award before becoming eligible to apply for the national honour.
Meru also encouraged young teachers and students in Nagaland to recognise that education extends beyond classroom instruction.
He said teachers should not restrict themselves to teaching allotted subjects or completing prescribed courses, but should work towards the all-round development of students.