KOHIMA — Little Flower Higher Secondary School, Kohima, celebrated its diamond jubilee on Friday at the school campus, marking a rich legacy of delivering and promoting education.
Minister of Higher Education and Tourism, Temjen Imna Along, who attended the celebration as special guest, underscored the importance of unity, values-based education and resilience among young people.
He commended the Catholic institutions for their dedication to holistic education, noting that the schools emphasise values and personal growth over material gain.
“The very ethos of Catholic institutions is not the corporate way of earning money; it is a holistic education where education is the focus,” he stated and acknowledged the Catholic missions for their commitment to nurturing the youth of Nagaland.
Observing the rapid growth of technology and its impact on young people, Along spoke on the challenges posed by the constant flow of information stating that while technology brings immense knowledge it also comes with challenges.
He cautioned the parents to be mindful of the narratives their children encounter online and stressed the need for guidance to ensure a balanced approach to life. He also urged the parents to guide their children away from tribalism, fostering instead a sense of shared identity as Nagas.
“For eight hours, your children are in school and here, there is no ism. But when they go home, they may hear family discussions that create divisions,” he said and urged the parents to set examples of unity and understanding.
The minister emphasised the need for rebuilding unity, which is essential for a future where society thrives, regardless of socio-economic background. He also called for a community that values hard work, humility and resilience over material achievements.
He also advised the students to carry themselves with dignity and pride and urged them not to be held back by limited resources.
Meanwhile, he also highlighted the complex Naga political issue that remains unresolved, with various factions having different interpretations of the agreement. In this regard, he called for Naga leaders to engage in more meaningful dialogue with the central government, stressing that both sides must listen to each other to reach a peaceful resolution.
In his speech, the bishop of Kohima, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil DD, recalled how the school had sailed through the years despite difficulties as the first Catholic institution in Nagaland.
While acknowledging all those who have contributed to the growth of the school, he stressed that education should not only prepare one for a living, but for life that foster social, cultural and economic development.
He stated that education should cultivate individuals character, competence, compassion and commitment, promoting collaboration and a counter-culture to competitive models.
He also underlined the Church’s commitment to holistic education, focusing on the poor and marginalised and building a just, peaceful and harmonious society.
As the school celebrates its 60th year, he prayed for its continued success in shaping future leaders who embrace values of justice, knowledge and integrity.
Speeches were also delivered by Kumar Ramnikant, deputy commissioner of Kohima, and Rev. Sr. Mabel Gothorp FMA, Provincial, who also attended as guests of honour.