The Süngratsü Students’ Union (SSU) organized a unique two-day skill development workshop from June 24–25 under the theme “Self-Reliance,” as an initiative to uplift the Arju Centre, Süngratsü.
The initiative brought together traditional cultural knowledge and modern techniques in organic farming, aiming to equip students with practical skills for sustainable living and income generation.
The first day of the workshop, held at Senden Salang, Süngratsü, focused on traditional crafts. Students received hands-on training in bamboo craftsmanship, learning to create items such as baskets, mats, indigenous bamboo plates, and machete handles. The session also emphasized value addition to leftover materials through practices like pickle-making. Complementing the practical sessions were theory classes rooted in folklore, tradition, and the cultural heritage passed down through generations in Arju (boys’ dormitory) and Tsüki (girls’ dormitory).
Master trainers asserted that bamboo crafts are more than just functional items — they are living stories that carry the history, customs, and identity of the community.
SSU President Tekameren Aier noted that these crafts not only reflect the rich heritage of the village but can also serve as sustainable livelihood options when preserved and passed on.
Senior student leader Lanulemba Longchar highlighted the broader aim of the workshop — instilling the values of cultural pride and self-reliance among students. “This isn’t just about skills,” he said. “It’s about ensuring our traditions live on and helping students realize they can create value with what’s already around them.”
The second day took students to Yimchalu, a tourist farm village selected for its demonstration value. Here, participants observed organic green tea processing and engaged in agricultural and allied activities led by experts from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Yimsemyong, Mokokchung. The sessions focused on practical applications of organic farming, including maintaining home kitchen gardens and recognizing the potential of local raw materials for creating marketable products.
Lanulemba stressed the importance of resource awareness, noting that the raw materials available in our area should inspire innovation, not dependence. “The goal,” he said, “is to raise individuals who are not liabilities but contributors to society.”
Day one trainers included K. Zulu Lemtur, Nokenwapang Ozukum, Imolila, Mejongsangla, Alisoa Aier, Shilutemsu Walling, Rediwapang, De Temjensangla Pongener, Chubayondang Walling, and Takawati Walling. Day two resource persons were C. Wati Walling, Village Council Chairman of Yimchalu, and Dr. Sarenti from KVK Yimsemyong, along with his colleagues.