Nand Kishore Yadav inaugurated the Academic Staff College and new health science facilities at International University Nagaland.
DIMAPUR — Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Saturday inaugurated the Academic Staff College and unveiled advanced facilities in naturopathy, physiotherapy and medical laboratory science at the International University, Nagaland (IUN), Chümoukedima, marking 20 years of the institution's service to the state.
Addressing the gathering, Yadav said he was "profoundly struck by the vision and dedication" that had nurtured the university since its establishment in 2006.
"For two decades, the International University, Nagaland has been a crucible of innovation, social responsibility and environmental stewardship, beautifully embodying the pioneering 'Catch Them Young' philosophy," he said.
Describing the newly inaugurated Academic Staff College and health sciences facilities as "vital engines of progress," the governor said they were designed to strengthen human capital and contribute to Nagaland's development.
"While modern curriculum and technology are important, a fundamental truth remains—a university cannot rise above the level of its faculty," he said.
"By investing in our teachers, we create a multiplier effect. Empower one educator and you uplift hundreds of students. In doing so, we enrich our entire state."
Highlighting the significance of the new health sciences facilities, Yadav said the university was leading the way by integrating traditional disciplines such as naturopathy and physiotherapy with modern medical laboratory science, in line with the global shift toward preventive healthcare.
He said the state-of-the-art facilities would serve not only as centres for academic learning but also as diagnostic hubs for surrounding communities.
"This seamless blend of academic learning and public service captures the very essence of social responsibility," he said.
Addressing students, the governor urged them to become "job-givers, not job-seekers."
"In an era defined by automation and artificial intelligence, your entrepreneurial spirit, competence and ethical commitment will set you apart. Do not just fit into existing slots. Build new enterprises and use your education to solve the local challenges of Nagaland," he said.
To the faculty, Yadav described their role as "sacred," calling them the architects of the next generation. He urged them to make full use of the Academic Staff College to move beyond rote learning, foster inquiry, ethics and empathy, and undertake research tailored to the state's economic and geo-climatic needs.
Academic Staff College Director Prof. Zavise Rume said the initiative was launched to address the lack of regular professional development opportunities for teachers in Nagaland.
Referring to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, he noted that it mandates 50 hours of continuous professional development annually for teachers.
He said the college would conduct 30-day induction programmes for newly appointed faculty, 15-day refresher courses for serving teachers, faculty development programmes, and training in online, offline and hybrid modes.
It will also organise seminars, workshops, research initiatives and academic exchange programmes.
Prof. Rume said the long-term vision was to develop the institution into a centre of excellence for teacher education and professional training across the Northeast through collaborations with universities, government agencies and industries to enhance skills and employability.
Advisor for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, TN Mannen, described the Academic Staff College as an important opportunity for educators and professionals in Nagaland to continually upgrade their knowledge and skills.
He said the college would focus on orientation and refresher courses for teachers, academicians and experienced service officers.
"In the modern era, knowledge is multiplying exponentially, and even artificial intelligence is outpacing the human brain. We need to constantly reorient our knowledge and experiences in tune with the changing world and society. Otherwise, we shall become irrelevant," Mannen said.