The Department of Technical Education has urged the All Sümi Students’ Union (SKK) to call off its planned protest regarding the introduction of a civil engineering degree at Khelhoshe Polytechnic, Atoizu, stating that the issue is being addressed at the highest level.
In a letter addressed to the SKK president, Er Vipulhou Lhoungu, Director of Technical Education, stated, “The Department of Technical Education fully understands your concern regarding the introduction of a civil engineering degree at Khelhoshe Polytechnic, Atoizu, and the Department is also committed to addressing the same in addition to the steps that we have already taken.”
According to the letter, a meeting was convened by Nagaland Chief Minister on March 10, 2025, regarding the implementation of the Cabinet decision on the matter. “After due deliberation, the Hon’ble Chief Minister has further instructed the Department to have a consultative meeting with all stakeholders on 17th March, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Conference Hall of the Directorate of Technical Education, which will be chaired by Hon’ble MLA & Advisor for Transport & Technical Education, Nagaland,” the letter stated.
The Department invited the SKK to participate in the meeting “for constructive dialogue and to find a path forward for the welfare & future of the Technical Student’s Community of the State.” Further, the union has been requested to call off the protest in light of the scheduled discussions.
Deputy Speaker meets stakeholders
Deputy Speaker Toiho Yeptho convened a meeting with representatives of Sümi Kiphimi Küqhakulu (SKK), Sümi Hoho, Sümi Kukami Hoho, Sümi Youth Organisation, the principal of Khelhoshe Polytechnic, and public leaders from Asukhuto to address concerns surrounding Khelhoshe Polytechnic, Atoizu. According to a statement from S Katoka Awomi, Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, the meeting aimed to find a way forward for the institution, which has faced challenges for 18 years.
SKK President Gihuka Zhimomi stated that Khelhoshe Polytechnic is a shared asset of the Naga society and not just the Sümi community. He said the focus should be on its development rather than targeting individuals.
President Sümi Hoho said land compensation issues had been settled long ago and that there were no pending disputes. He welcomed initiatives for infrastructure and academic development. Landowners also confirmed that compensation matters had been resolved and expressed support for the institution’s growth.
Yeptho urged unity and trust in the government’s efforts to address the institution’s needs. He assured that he would take up the matter with the authorities and emphasized the importance of cooperation now that land disputes were resolved.
With government discussions set for March 17, 2025, Yeptho appealed to SKK to call off its agitation to allow for meaningful dialogue.
“The meeting concluded on an optimistic and collaborative note, with all stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to working together for the betterment of Khelhoshe Polytechnic. The consensus reached during the discussions marks a significant step toward resolving the long-pending issues and setting the stage for the long-overdue development of the institution,” the statement from PS to Yeptho added.
SKK temporarily suspends agitation
Following the request from the Directorate of Technical Education, Nagaland Kohima, to pause its protest in light of a consultative meeting scheduled for March 17, 2025, the All Sümi Students’ Union (SKK) has temporarily suspended its ongoing agitation.
While the SKK has agreed to pause the protest, the union reiterated that its demand for a full-fledged engineering college remains unresolved. The agitation will resume if the government fails to respond to this demand.
The SKK expressed gratitude for the support from various organizations and individuals throughout the protest and urged the public to continue offering support until the goal is achieved, calling for continued advocacy for justice.