The summer camp organized by Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) for the Arju Centers entered its second day on Friday with a range of enriching activities. The delegates participated in Green Audit, hands-on learning on Livestock Farming as an Entrepreneurial Enterprise, and visitations to various departments of Fazl Ali College (FAC), while the center mentors received pedagogical skills training on writing and teaching math. The day concluded with a captivating cultural program where students shared their experiences from the Arju Centers, highlighting the skills they learned and the improvement in their studies with the centers’ assistance.
During the cultural program, the mentors of the 12 centers also presented reports on their respective centers’ progress, emphasizing how the children have gained enlightenment through learning various traditional practices. They further expressed how the students’ academic performance has improved significantly, thanks to the remedial classes provided in various subjects at the centers.
Addressing the delegates, Sentinenla, the District Education Officer of Mokokchung, highlighted the fortunate position of the participants to have Arju Centers in their villages. She shared that numerous villages are now requesting the establishment of Arju Centers in their communities as well. Encouraging the students, she urged them to seize the opportunities offered by the centers and make the best use of them. She also applauded the mentors for their dedication and urged them to continue their efforts in supporting the children.
R Ayim Longkumer, a representative from the apex Ao Senden, stressed the significance of the Arju Centers in bridging the gap between bookish education and holistic development. He emphasized that skills are necessary for an individual’s comprehensive growth and success. Merely being literate is not enough, he stated, adding that learning from such centers should complement formal education. He further encouraged the students to identify their inherent talents and hone their skills to contribute to the betterment of society.
The day was further enriched by captivating traditional presentations from various Arju Centers, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Ao Nagas.
As the summer camp progresses, the participants continue to be immersed in a holistic learning experience, combining traditional wisdom with modern education. The 3-day camp will culminate on Saturday with a workshop titled ‘Skilling for a future’.
The AKM’s efforts in organizing the summer camp and revitalizing the Arju Centers are celebrated for their contribution to the comprehensive development of students from rural areas, complementing the formal education system and ensuring a brighter future for the youth in Mokokchung district.
The 12 Arju centers are located in two villages each from the six ranges of Mokokchung – including Aonokpu, Longjang, Longkhum, Longpayimsen, Mangmetong, Merangkong, Moayimti, Mongchen, Mongsenyimti, Sungratsü, Waromung, and Yajang C.