The much-awaited Mangkolemba New Model College began its journey this year with a total of 13 students in the Arts stream. The college has been operational since the admission process began in June and is currently under the mentorship of Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung, and Mokokchung College of Teacher Education.
Speaking to Mokokchung Times, Dr Benjongkumba, the Principal of Mangkolemba New Model College, stated that the institution has been functioning smoothly, although some details are still being finalized. Dr Benjongkumba, formerly an Associate Professor at Dimapur Government College, expressed his delight that the college is extending its educational services to the neighboring villages surrounding Mangkolemba.
He revealed that the inaugural batch of students primarily comprises mostly the residents of the Mangkolemba area, but the college has also warmly welcomed students from diverse backgrounds, including individuals of Bihari and Nepalese descent. A few students have even joined from Mokokchung town.
Dr Benjongkumba explained that, for the time being, the teaching staff comprises assistant professors from Fazl Ali College and one from Mokokchung College of Teacher Education, each contributing on a weekly or monthly basis. He remains hopeful that permanent teaching appointments will be made in the near future.
“At the moment, the faculties are from Fazl Ali College and one from Mokokchung College Teacher Education. They serve here on a weekly basis. Some stay for a month, some for a week and two like that,” the principal said.
Regarding the college’s potential, Dr Benjongkumba mentioned that the region already has two Higher Secondary Schools, with plans to upgrade two more High Schools to Higher Secondary. He emphasized the enthusiasm among local people, especially parents, regarding the college and expressed hope that it would become a conducive place for learning, benefiting society at large.
He added, “I am very comfortable with the current situation, and public cooperation has been wonderful.”
Mangkolemba New Model College was established under Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) during phase II, covering 29 acres of land under Khar village jurisdiction at Tzüpaksa, in the Mangkolemba sub-division. The foundation stone of the college was laid by Minister Temjen Imna Along on 23 October 2018.