Livingstone Foundation College launches Elite Strength Gym Varsity in Dimapur, introducing Nagaland’s first fitness education curriculum.
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DIMAPUR — A specialised educational curriculum for fitness was introduced at Livingstone Foundation College, Landmark colony in Dimapur, with the inauguration of Elite Strength Gym Varsity on Monday, marking Nagaland’s first dedicated fitness and strength education institute.
The 5000 square feet state-of-the-art strength training infrastructure was opened and introduced in the curriculum, a varsity programme adopted from the USA, with a mission to professionalise physical culture in the region, providing a structured academic and practical platform for strength athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu, who inaugurated the gym as the chief guest, remarked that the moment marked not just the beginning of a new institution but the beginning of a movement that places health, strength and well-being at the centre of human progress.
He observed that in today’s fast-paced world, people often measure success through achievements, titles, wealth, recognition, status and position while pursuing deadlines, promotions and social expectations, but in doing so, they often forget the very foundation that supports it all, which is health.
Nienu shared an insight from his own experience, urging people especially those above 45 to prioritise health. He emphasised that life's priorities often lead people to overlook their well-being, chasing fame, fortune, and assets instead.
“Health is the most important thing in one’s life,” he stressed, adding that true wealth can only be achieved with good health.
“If you have wealth but no health, your riches will drain away trying to regain it,” he warned while saying good health offers a chance to rebuild wealth, making it the true cornerstone of prosperity.
He reminded young people not to make the mistake of prioritising their careers or their desire for power, position, or wealth over their health.
The MLA cautioned that success is meaningless if the body cannot sustain it, and achievements lose their value when the mind is exhausted and energy is depleted.
Nienu lauded the introduction of an educational curriculum for fitness at Livingstone Foundation College, stating that it would stand as a reminder that strength is not just about muscles, but also discipline, resilience and balance, and about building a lifestyle where fitness is not an option but a necessity, where education is not only sharpening the mind but also strengthening the body.
To the students who will be working through these doors, he called on them that they are not just learners but are future ambassadors of health who will have the power to increase lives, to inspire changes and to build a healthier society.
Geoffery Yaden, Chief Editor of Nagaland Post who attended the event as guest of honour, recalled the challenges of pursuing fitness in his early years. He highlighted the scarcity of infrastructure, equipment and guidance, as he recollected that aspiring bodybuilders relied on makeshift tools and grit to achieve their goals.
Drawing from his personal journey, Yaden stressed that true fitness is rooted in perseverance, consistency and mental toughness. Fitness, he said is not just about the body but it is deeply connected to the mind, highlighting that a disciplined mind paves the way for a fit body and shapes one's personality and outlook.
Yaden urged young people to cultivate resilience, stay focused and remain committed to their goals, noting that the discipline gained through fitness can positively impact every aspect of life.
Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema, chairman of Livingstone Foundation International, stated that the establishment of the facility has been a long-term vision while emphasising that education today must go beyond conventional classroom learning and focus on skill development and holistic growth.
Remarking that the education system is overrated while depending on marks, he told the students that they are fortunate to have the facility of the 500 square feet state-of-the-art centre where they can master and become achievers, reminding them that skill has become a living factor.
Stressing on the need for institutions to move away from marks-based evaluation to skill-based competencies, aligning with global trends that prioritize practical knowledge over rote learning, he urged students to leverage available infrastructure to tap into professional careers, entrepreneurship and international opportunities in fitness and wellness.
Sports Director Agapeto Achumi said the gym is not inclusive for students only but is open to the public, offering subsidised rates for students and free access for church workers, subject to a registration fee and verification through ID card.
The gym, he said, has partnered with Spartan Fitness Education to offer professional courses, opening doors to careers in fitness. The offline courses are open to students and non-students alike. Additionally, the elite strength programme will be available, primarily targeting students but welcoming outsiders, further solidifying the gym's commitment to fitness education and community development.
A faith-based varsity fitness programme, adapted from the US, is being incorporated and the model focuses on holistic development, combining physical strength with character, discipline and spiritual growth.
According to him, this pioneering initiative marks the first structured varsity fitness programme in the northeast region aiming to shape well-rounded individuals.