Dimapur, August 10 (EMN): Minister of School Education, Tokheho Yepthomi, today expounded on the greater responsibilities of the present as well as future generations to pursue education ‘if we are to progress as a people.’
Tokheho Yepthomi said this at the inauguration of Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School, Seikhazou, D Khel in Kohima village as the chief guest. He termed Dr. Neilhouzhü’s legacy as an icon of philanthropy, education and humanity for the Nagas, adding his heroism and commitment to administering the sick and wounded people during the WW II spoke volumes of his valour and also of his commitment to the medical profession.
Amongst numerous initiatives and responsibilities shouldered by Dr. Neilhouzhü, Tokheho mentioned the love and concern of the former towards education and uplift of the Nagas.
Stating that renaming of the school after late Dr. Neilhouzhü was befitting, he called on the present as well as the future generations to remember the selfless sacrifice of Dr. Neilhouzhü, a true Naga who served the people with undiluted enthusiasm. In this context, he urged perpetuating Dr. Neilhouzhü’s dream on the need for education if we are to progress as a people. He also challenged the teachers and the students to live up to the memory of the great pioneer.
Dr. Neikiesalie Kire, giving a brief life sketch of Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire, said late Kire was born in 1900 in Kohima village and cleared the matriculation in 1918 from Shillong Government High School to become the first Naga matriculate according to the ‘Naga High School’ Annual Review of 1954-55, and the book “Tenyimia Mhasi Kerieko” by Kiezotuo Zhale (2010).
After his matriculation, Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire studied in Dibrugarh at the Berry White Medical School, where he obtained an LMP (Licentiate Medical Practitioner) in the year 1922. On May 15, 1969, he breathed his last.
Sharing his experiences, Rev. L. Suohie described Dr. N Kire was an outstanding person who achieved so much for the future generation. The Rev said late Dr. N Kire, even after retirement from government service, served the people by opening the first pharmacy in Kohima. Rev. L Suohie said according to Dr. N Kire education is the only solution to bring development in the society.
Deputy Commissioner, Kohima and Chairman of Managing Board, Rajesh Soundararajan, said Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School is one of the best performing government schools in the district. He described Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire as a tall figure and a benchmark in the history of education in the State. Pointing out that Dr. Kire did not settle outside but came back and contributed to the state, he said is something we should learn about giving back.
Soundararajan called for learning from introspection on the values and examples set by Dr. Neilhouzhü besides the mere renaming of the school.
Chairman of Kohima Village Council, Dr. Neiphi Kire, said Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire was an outstanding person who contributed innumerable services in various fields.
The school vice principal, Rose Chishi Kenye, chaired the programme, while the principal, Dr. Bijano Murry delivered the vote of thanks. The school choir also presented a special number. Parliamentary Secretary, Merentoshi Jamir, Principal Secretary of School Education, Principal Director of School Education attended the programme.
