A prominent educator and beloved senior citizen, Tongpangshilu, peacefully passed away at his residence in Mokokchung on Monday evening around 9:30 PM at the age of 90. A native of Longsa village, Tongpangshilu’s contributions to education and his unwavering commitment to the Naga National Council (NNC) have left an indelible mark on the region.
Tongpangshilu, born on 23 May 1933, was a man of remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication. He passed his matriculation from Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School in 1961, following which he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree at Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung. In 1968, he earned his Bachelor of Teaching (B.T.) degree from Guwahati University. He then undertook Question Setter Training at NCERT in New Delhi in 1976.
Tongpangshilu’s journey in the field of education began as a private teacher in a local school in Mokokchung Village. Afterward, he secured a government teaching position, where he served in various schools in Mokokchung. In 1978, he was promoted to the position of District Inspector of Schools (DIS) and was posted in Kiphire. His career continued to ascend as he was transferred to Tuensang in 1981 as DIS, followed by postings in Mangkolemba, and eventually returning to Mokokchung as DIS. He climbed the ranks, holding positions such as OST, Assistant Director, and retiring with honor as the Deputy Director in 1998.
Following his retirement, Tongpangshilu continued to serve the community by taking on the role of administrator at Jubilee Memorial School in Mokokchung from 1998 to 2005.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tongpangshilu was a dedicated member of the Naga National Council (NNC). In his youth, he served as the General Secretary of the Naga Youth Movement (NYM) within the NNC, working tirelessly for the Naga cause. Even after retirement, he was selected as a Central Executive Council Member of the NNC, a position he held until his last breath.
Tongpangshilu’s life was enriched by his faith, and he was an active member of various churches throughout his life.
In his personal life, Tongpangshilu was married to Repasongla, and together they were blessed with two sons and three daughters. Unfortunately, a son and a daughter as well as his wife have already passed away. He is survived by his three children and six grandchildren.
Tongpangshilu was laid to rest in the Mokokchung cemetery on Tuesday.