Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School in Chizami celebrates its golden jubilee with church and state leaders.
DIMAPUR — Sacred Heart Higher Secondary School, Chizami, in Phek district, celebrated its golden jubilee on October 9.
Minister for Power and Parliamentary Affairs KG Kenye attended the celebration as the special guest, while Bishop of Kohima Rev. Dr. James Thoppil delivered the jubilee message.
According to an update, the programme featured the hoisting of the jubilee flag, lighting of the jubilee lamp, a prayer dance, cultural performances, a theme song, and the release of the golden jubilee souvenir.
Speaking on the occasion, Kenye acknowledged the opposition and hardships encountered by Catholic missionaries in parts of Nagaland during the early years of their mission. He expressed regret and apologised for the difficulties caused to the Church by sections of the local population.
Kenye commended the Catholic Church for remaining steadfast and praised the quality of education provided by Catholic institutions. He encouraged the students to study well, become responsible citizens, and serve society. The minister also noted the personal significance of his return to the institution after 35 years.
Also read: Dimapur observes World Hospice & Palliative Care Day
In his message, Bishop Thoppil expressed gratitude to pioneer Jesuit missionaries, the Ursuline Franciscan Sisters, successive principals, teachers, alumni, parents, and the people of Chizami. Recalling the school's beginnings as a primary school in 1976, he paid tribute to the missionaries who persevered through difficult terrain, limited infrastructure, and social opposition.
The bishop stated that Catholic education is a mission of service rather than a commercial enterprise, reaching communities where educational opportunities are limited. He highlighted the formation of academic competence, moral character, and social responsibility as the foundation of Catholic education, noting that it appreciates and preserves indigenous culture while preparing students to meet wider standards.
Addressing the students, he urged them to study diligently, uphold discipline and prayer, respect teachers, and avoid the influences of drugs, alcohol, and excessive mobile phone use. He also called on alumni and parents to continue supporting the institution.