North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research launches STAR programme

Published on May 26, 2025

Bachelor of Social Work students at NEISSR participate in the STAR programme orientation held at Newman Pastoral Centre, Chümoukedima.
DIMAPUR — The North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) began its annual STAR (Students Training and Academic Excellence) programme on Monday, running from May 26 to the 28th.
This three-day orientation for Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students of the 1st, 3rd, and 5th semesters formally welcomed the new batch and marked the start of the academic year, according to a press release.
On Monday, at Newman Pastoral Centre, Chümoukedima, the programme began with a group activity to engage the students, followed by an address from James Phanungkiu, project coordinator at Peace Channel, who outlined the objectives of STAR and emphasised the core values of social work education.
The event was formally opened with an invocation by Dr. Robin Thomas, followed by a welcome speech from Dr. CP Anto, founder-director of NEISSR.
Dr. Anto urged students to enhance their skills, develop a positive attitude, and become compassionate social workers aligned with NEISSR’s mission of addressing contemporary social issues through innovative solutions.

Rev. Fr. Lawrence Khing, vice principal, encouraged students to act as advocates for social change, and an interactive ice-breaking session led by Pezangulie Suokhrie promoted teamwork and communication among participants.
The programme also featured a leadership session by Nlumpeule, assistant professor, who discussed various leadership styles and the importance of communication, emotional intelligence, goal setting, and vision in effective leadership.
Dr. Toli H Kiba introduced the students to the methods of social work, highlighting the profession’s ethical and practical dimensions, while Dr. Lily Sangpui emphasised the significance of fieldwork practicum as “learning by doing” to develop practical skills.