DIMAPUR — North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Peace Centre, Chümoukedima, celebrated its 11th graduation-cum-foundation day at the Bishop Abraham Memorial Hall on Saturday.
According to an update, the ceremony was attended by Additional Secretary of Higher and Technical Education and Ex-Officio Director of Higher Education V Lovitoly Sema as the chief guest, while Bishop of Kohima and Chairman of NEISSR Rev. Dr. James Thoppil was the special guest.
The event brought together members of the management, faculty and staff, graduating students, parents and guardians, government representatives, religious leaders, and well-wishers.
In her address, Lovitoly congratulated the graduating students and described the occasion as both the culmination of one chapter and the beginning of a new journey beyond the classroom.
Highlighting the distinctive responsibility of social work professionals, she stated that social work is not merely a profession but a commitment to people, compassion, justice, and social responsibility. She encouraged the graduates to translate their academic knowledge and professional skills into meaningful action for society.
Highlighting the relevance of social work education to the realities of Nagaland and the Northeast, the chief guest observed that challenges such as mental health concerns, substance abuse, family problems, gender-related issues, conflict, displacement, and the increasing influence of digital technologies require professionals capable of working effectively across communities and institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Thoppil congratulated the graduates and reflected on the growth of NEISSR since its establishment. Recalling the early years of the institution, he described NEISSR as a small mustard seed that has grown into a significant institution of social work education.
Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Principal of NEISSR Dr. Fr. CP Anto described the occasion as a celebration not merely of academic degrees but of dreams fulfilled, values strengthened, character formed, and a new generation of social work professionals prepared for service and transformation.
He noted that around 40 NEISSR students have cleared the National Eligibility Test over the past two years, with several students progressing towards doctoral studies and academic careers.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the conferring of degrees upon 97 graduating students from the Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work programmes. The Best Student Award was presented to Th. Jacob Khongsai.