Kohima, 20 September: Rev. Beilieü Shüya, regarded as the first Naga woman to be ordained and a pioneering figure in the Naga Christian revival movement, passed away in Kohima on September 18 at the age of 98 due to age-related complications. She was laid to rest at her residence at Mission Compound on September 19 following a funeral service at Ura Academy.
Born on August 15, 1928, in Kohima, Rev. Shüya was the eldest of 10 children of Lhousuohie Shüya and Zenuo Shüya. She pursued studies in education, theology and Tenyidie and was recognised for her contribution as an educationist.
In a condolence message, Ura Academy President Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu recalled her contribution to the institution since its inception. Rev. Shüya was among the founding members of the Angami Literature Committee formed in 1970, which was renamed Ura Academy in 1971.
Liezietsu recalled that she allowed the committee to use the National School she had founded for its activities and later donated land gifted to her by her parents for the Academy’s present premises.
“Posterity and the community will forever remember her as the Mother to Ura Academy,” he said.
Rev. Shüya served on the Ura Academy Chatha, or Board of Directors, until her death. Liezietsu announced that Ura Academy Hall would henceforth be named “Rev. Beilieü Hall” in her memory.
Minister K.G. Kenye and Rajya Sabha MP S. Phangnon Konyak also condoled her demise.
