The Minister for Tourism & Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along, recently attended the Graduation Day ceremony for the Batch of 2022-2024 at the Modern Institute of Teacher Education in Kohima. During his address, he emphasized the importance of quality education in shaping the future of Naga society. Along stated that it is the educated individuals who will bring about positive change in society, as opposed to merely literate individuals who lack the understanding of responsibility and resilience.
According to Along, the strength of a society lies in the quality of its people, not in material possessions or infrastructure. He urged the graduates to embrace their role as educators and to find connection in their shared humanity. He highlighted the need for empathy, responsibility, and perseverance in order to make a meaningful impact on society.
The Minister distinguished between being literate and being educated, noting that true education is not measured by wealth or status, but by one’s character and values. He emphasized the importance of humility and resilience in the teaching profession, stating that teachers have the power to shape the future by imparting knowledge and values to their students.
Along commended the Modern Institute of Teacher Education as a valuable institution that goes beyond mere business interests. He praised the role of teachers as influential figures in society, second only to parents in shaping the minds and values of the next generation. He urged the graduates to approach their work with pride, humility, and empathy, emphasizing the importance of leading a life based on dignity and responsibility.
The Principal of the college, Dr. Kate Dandesh Kumar, welcomed the attendees, while NU 1st rank holder Lency Kent also shared her thoughts during the ceremony. The event featured musical performances by the students and concluded with a vote of thanks by Nchumbemo Ngullie, President of MITESU.
In conclusion, Minister Temjen Imna Along’s address at the Graduation Day ceremony highlighted the crucial role of education in building a strong and compassionate society. His words served as a reminder to the graduating teachers of their responsibility to instill values of empathy, humility, and perseverance in their students, thereby contributing to the betterment of Naga society as a whole.