The third phase of the Training-cum-Cooking Competition under the PM POSHAN scheme was launched on Thursday at GMS Peren Town Auditorium. The initiative aims to build the capacity of cook-cum-helpers engaged in the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) programme across government schools in Nagaland.
Organized by the Community Educational Centre Society (CECS) in partnership with the Directorate of School Education, the current phase will be conducted from July 18 to 29 in Peren, Kohima, Tseminyu, Wokha, and Mokokchung districts. Earlier phases were held in Dimapur, Dhansiriphar, Niuland, and Medziphema, where over 600 cooks received hands-on training.
Chairing the launch event, AEO Peren Shri Hentinthang welcomed participants. Watimeren, SDEO Tenning, acknowledged the critical role of cooks in contributing to students’ health and academic success. “Your work goes beyond the kitchen—you contribute directly to students’ health, attendance, and academic performance,” he said.
CECS Director Subonenba Longkumer highlighted CECS’s experience in operating a central kitchen in Dimapur serving over 7,000 children daily. “Despite the challenges in the mid-day meal system, we’ve always believed in one principle—serve happily and make the best use of locally available resources,” he stated.
Khriekethozo Lhoungu, PM POSHAN Nodal Officer, Directorate of School Education, Kohima, delivered the keynote address, underlining the importance of trained and motivated cooks. “Nutrition is the foundation of education,” he emphasized.
Chef Supong Longkumer, a certified chef from Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, led the technical session with a live cooking demonstration focusing on hygiene, food safety, and nutrition.
The event was attended by Dr. Chuba Imchen, Joint Director of DoSE, the SMC Chairman, and the Head Teacher of GPS Peren. Toshi Aier, Program Officer CECS, delivered the vote of thanks.
The training will continue in the remaining districts with practical sessions and competitions to empower cooks in delivering nutritious meals to schoolchildren.
