VC Patnaik: “Money is not a problem when it comes to enhancing education”
Nagaland University reached a major milestone on Monday with the inauguration of a new academic building for the Department of Education and Department of Teacher Education at its Kohima Campus in Meriema.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Jagadish Kumar Patnaik unveiled the monolith and cut the ceremonial ribbon at 11:00 AM, marking the official opening of the long-anticipated structure. The ceremony was attended by Pro Vice-Chancellors Prof N Venuh (Kohima Campus) and Prof. Dipak Sinha (Medziphema Campus), Registrar Dr. Abemo, deans, engineers, faculty, administrative staff, students, and scholars.
Prof Lungsang Zeliang, Head of the Department of Education, chaired the program and welcomed the gathering. She described the building as “a result of dreams, passion, and hard work of the stakeholders,” and thanked the university authorities for their support.
The gathering began with an invocation by Prof. Buno Zetsuvi, Chairperson of the Construction Monitoring Committee, setting a reflective tone for the event. Executive Engineer Er Rukusayi Rhakho shared a detailed report on the new building, including its timeline, construction challenges, and cost breakdown.
Registrar Dr Abemo praised the joint efforts behind the project and encouraged all departments to work toward “positive growth” and productivity.
Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof N Venuh acknowledged the eight-year-long construction process, noting that the project faced several delays. He informed the gathering that a conference hall has been approved and that a long-awaited auditorium for the campus is likely to be realized soon. “Negativity has hindered the university’s growth—we must move forward with positivity,” he urged.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Patnaik reflected on the 30-year history of Nagaland University, pointing out that while academic departments grew over the years, infrastructure did not keep pace. He commended Prof. Buno Zetsuvi for her commitment to the campus’s development and said, “Money is not a problem when it comes to enhancing education. Only top-quality infrastructure is acceptable.”
He also acknowledged the contribution of Prof GT Thong, former Pro Vice-Chancellor, and encouraged students to “work hard, be sincere, and come out with flying colours.” Stressing the need for a strong sense of belonging among students and faculty, he said the university must focus on excellence and responsibility.
After the vote of thanks from the Chairperson, attendees toured the new facility.