Nagaland University conducts training on beekeeping

DIMAPUR — Education department of Nagaland University (NU), Kohima campus, in collaboration with the Nagaland Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM), conducted a one-day basic training on beekeeping on August 7.

An update from the University stated that the training was part of its ongoing skill development initiative aimed at integrating practical and sustainable skills into higher education.

In her welcome address, Prof. Lungsang Zeliang, head of Education department, emphasised the importance of inculcating education with life skills, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the growing need for sustainable livelihoods.

The special guest and pro-vice chancellor of NU Kohima campsu, Prof. Venuh, described the programme as a timely opportunity to bridge academic knowledge with real world skills. He encouraged the participants to embrace beekeeping not just as a livelihood, but as a way of connecting with nature.

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He also called for future collaboration between NBHM and Nagaland University, especially in the area of research on bees and pollination.

The inaugural programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Limala, associate professor of Education, who expressed gratitude to the NBHM team for their effort and commitment in enlightening the participants. She also thanked the university administration for supporting the training and appreciated the teamwork within the Education department for making the event a success.

The technical sessions were led by three resource persons from NBHM namely Neilazono Terhuja, Nzanbemo K Lotha and Mhathung T Tsopoe.

Neilazono Terhuja introduced the basics of bees and beekeeping, highlighting the importance and scope of apiculture in Nagaland and its potential as a local livelihood, while Nzanbemo Lotha spoke on routine and seasonal management of bee colonies, stressing the importance of timely inspection and hive care and Mhathung Tsopoe explained the vital role of bees in pollination and their impact on the ecosystem and agriculture.

The sessions were supported by visual aids and followed by a hands-on demonstration, wherein participants learned how to handle bee boxes and tools safely.

It stated that NBHM also donated essential beekeeping tools to the Education department to enable students and research scholars explore beekeeping as a skill and livelihood option beyond the training.

The programme concluded with a valedictory session chaired by Keduoneinuo Solo, research scholar and the vote of thanks was delivered by research scholar, Megosielie Khate.

The programme was attended by faculty members, research scholars and postgraduate students.