The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has begun a series of programs leading up to the Sesquicentennial (150 years) celebration of formal education in the Naga Hills, with a prelude event held at Molungyimsen village on Friday, the historic site where formal education is said to have begun through the work of Mrs. Mary Mead Clark.
As part of the commemorative program, the NSF highlighted the historical significance of the village and the contributions of early missionaries, while also initiating a heritage-based environmental activity involving the 148-year-old litchi tree planted by Rev Dr EW Clark. Seeds from the tree were collected, placed in polybags, and prepared as saplings under the theme “Conserving Heritage.” The NSF said the saplings would be distributed to Naga villages across different areas in the coming years as part of the 150-year commemoration.
Addressing the gathering, NSF leaders said the sesquicentennial celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the history of formal education in the region and acknowledged the role of pioneers in introducing education to the Naga Hills. They stated that the period also calls for “thanksgiving to God and American missionaries” for their “selfless contribution,” according to the organizers.
The NSF also announced a new educational initiative titled “Powered 60,” aimed at supporting civil service aspirants from economically underprivileged backgrounds. Under the program, one candidate from each assembly constituency in Nagaland will be selected for a one-year UPSC coaching and mentorship support program, the federation said.
NSF president Mteisuding, along with members of the Sub-Committee on Formal Education in Naga Hills Planning Committee, including convenor K Temjen Jamir and committee member Medo Yhokha, addressed the programme.
SDHO Tuli, Imchalemla, also spoke at the event. The program was presided over by AKM Education Secretary Imlikokba Kichu.
The federation also appealed for greater unity among the Naga people, stating that the community “cannot afford to remain divided any longer” and urging a broader collective outlook in strengthening social cohesion.
Later in the day, the NSF and AKM team visited Molungkimong village, where they toured sites associated with early Naga Christian history, including places linked to the first Naga Christian baptisms and the residence and work area of Rev Dr Clark.
The team also held a prayer fellowship with church leaders and the village council during the visit, as part of the commemorative program.
