A three-day Arju Camp, initiated by the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) under the aegis of Samagra Shiksha Nagaland, commenced today at Watsü Women Resource Centre, Marepkong, Mokokchung. The training program witnessed the participation of over 100 students, who received hands-on mentorship in baking, soap making, and electrification.
The camp featured expert guidance from Tekatila Changkiri in baking, Washilemla in soap making, and Er Mayangtoba Longkumer in electrification. During the inaugural session, AKM President Lanutoshi Aier highlighted the significance of the initiative, calling it one of the most active and well-performing centres. He further stated that, depending on the camp’s performance, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Arju Centre may be extended.
The Arju Centres were established as part of an innovative education initiative under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, in 2022-23. Under Samagra Shiksha Nagaland, 12 Arju Centres have been set up in rural Mokokchung to provide alternative learning spaces for students. These centres function under the Nagaland Education Mission, with a funding ratio of 50-50 between the Ministry of Education and AKM.
According to Aier, Nagaland currently has three Morung Centres located in Phek, Mokokchung, and Tuensang. In Mokokchung alone, 12 Arju Centres operate—one each in two villages of every six range—offering remedial classes with an emphasis on Mathematics, Science, English, Hindi, and local languages. Additionally, they provide training in reading and speaking skills, basic music concepts, arts and crafts, games and sports, computer education, and digital literacy. Classes are held three days a week after school.
As part of the soap-making session at the camp, students used locally available ingredients such as turmeric, tomato, and lemon to create handmade soaps, aiming to promote self-sufficiency among rural communities.
The Arju Camp continues until March 14, providing students with essential skills to enhance their learning and vocational opportunities.