An orientation program for the KPC-NBOCWWB (Kohima Press Club-Nagaland Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board) Media Fellowship 2024 was held today at the KPC Office in Kohima, for the three recipients: Vibeituonuo Kuotsu and Seyiekietuo Keretsü of Nagaland Post, and Kanili Kiho of The Morung Express.
Speaking on the occasion, CEO of NBOCWWB, commended all the fellows who wrote in-depth stories as part of the fellowship in the last two years and exuded hope to see more exciting stories coming up for this year’s edition.
He highlighted the Board’s mission to provide social security to construction workers and their families, noting the temporary nature of their earnings. He also highlighted the challenges faced in registering workers, as many lack proper documentation, and mentioned efforts to streamline the process to ensure that only genuine workers benefit.
The CEO also provided an overview of the schemes offered by NBOCWWB and was accompanied by Deputy CEO, Er. Vikeheto Naki.
Vishü Rita Krocha, General Secretary of KPC and Convenor of the Fellowship Committee, shared a brief history of the fellowship, which began in 2022 under the chairmanship of Dr. Kekhrie Yhome. She credited the leadership of CEO Chubayanger for continuing the program into its third year and giving journalists the opportunity to explore an often-overlooked area. She added that the committee was particularly impressed with the story ideas pitched by this year’s fellows, which will explore the lives of construction workers along the Kohima-Dimapur four-lane highway, focusing on their working conditions, wages, safety risks, and labor rights.
In her closing remarks, Alice Yhoshü remarked that the KPC-NBOCWWB is the only media fellowship that has been running for the third consecutive year. While citing the remarkable stories that have been produced over the last two years, she stated hope for a continued partnership with the NBOCWWB.
Senior Journalist & Member of the Fellowship Committee, H Chishi also spoke on the occasion. The recipients of the fellowship signed the Agreement during the program and also received partial payment towards the fellowship.
The program was chaired by Medolenuo Ambrocia, Member, Fellowship Committee. There was also an interactive session as part of the orientation program.
MT