Participants highlights lack of research-oriented centers and rising unemployment
Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha from Nagaland, S Supongmeren Jamir, made history on Monday, October 21, by becoming the first MP from Nagaland to visit Nagaland University Lumami. His visit was not only a rare moment for the University but also an opportunity to engage in discussions regarding the challenges facing the state, particularly in education, research, and youth employment.
According to Dr Abemo, Registrar of Nagaland University, “No other MP from Nagaland has visited the campus” until Jamir. The event took place in the I Ihoshe Kinimi Hall, with NU Vice Chancellor Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, faculty, and students present. The MP stated that the objective of his visit was to learn from what is considered the most educated and knowledgeable segment of society.
During the session, Jamir proposed the establishment of a ‘Centre of Excellence for Christian Studies, Cross-Cultural Studies, and Endangered Naga Languages,’ a move that aims to enhance academic research opportunities at the university. He hoped that a Centre such as this would facilitate degree programs, research, language documentation, cross-cultural studies, and publications and conferences.
During the interaction, the lack of engagement between policymakers and academic researchers in Nagaland was highlighted. The MP was encouraged to facilitate the incorporation of research into policy-making. The discussion also pointed out the scarcity of national-level institutions and research-oriented centers in Nagaland. Participants urged the MP to explore opportunities with reputable research institutions. It was noted that many talented researchers in the state often pursue opportunities abroad due to the lack of local institutions, highlighting the need for more research-oriented institutes.
The MP emphasized his intention to learn from the gathering and welcomed any advice or suggestions for improvement. “I will ensure that I do everything necessary where the services of the MP are required. I am here to serve the people,” he said, acknowledging his limited involvement in state functions. He also mentioned proposing the upgrade of the veterinary college in Jalukie, which the Ministry has approved.
Much of the discussion centered on youth unemployment. The MP urged attendees to take responsibility and create their own opportunities. He noted that there are approximately 1,000 vacancies in central services in Nagaland, including in Doordarshan, postal services, railways, and the Airports Authority of India, but there are technical issues that need to be addressed by the state government. ”I have taken this issue up with the state government and am working on it,” he said.
The interaction also recognized that Nagaland University is the only central university in the state, having been established over 30 years ago. It was noted that significant improvements have occurred under Vice Chancellor Prof Jagadish K Patnaik, but participants called for the MP’s intervention to expand the university’s capacity to accommodate more students.
Dr Temjensosang thanked the MP for his meaningful visit, noting that in his about 25 years at NU, Supongmeren Jamir was the first MP to visit the university and that also, “unilaterally.”