IGNOU Kohima Regional Centre Holds 38th Convocation
Kohima, March 5: The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Kohima Regional Centre recently held its 38th convocation, with Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Temjen Imna Along, attending the ceremony. The event saw 220 candidates receiving their certificates, including 708 Masters degrees, 154 Bachelor’s degrees, 31 diplomas, and 17 certificates.
Speaking at the convocation program, Minister Along emphasized that education is not just about earning a degree certificate but about continuous learning and application in real life. He praised the Indian government for establishing the regional center in Nagaland, pointing out that institutions like IGNOU are a testament to the country’s commitment to its people. Along highlighted that many young Naga degree holders cease to learn or work, encouraging the graduates to pursue excellence, work hard, and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Minister highlighted that even though Nagaland is one of the most literate states in the country, many literate individuals in the state are not using their skills effectively, saying, "Many literate individuals remain unemployed not due to a lack of education, but a lack of willingness to work and learn new skills." He urged the graduates to break free from the mindset that education alone guarantees success, instead seeking opportunities, innovating, and contributing to the state’s progress with a "commitment to self and commitment to the people."
Along also emphasized the importance of remaining steadfast and resilient in the face of challenges, encouraging the graduates to continue learning, accept their strengths and weaknesses, and use them as a catalyst for personal growth. He stressed that it is not material possessions, such as roads, buildings, or cars, that make a person progressive but rather the upgradation of their thought process, which enables them to build a resilient and patient approach, pursuing excellence not just for themselves but for others.
The Minister also touched on the issue of tribalism, caste, and selfish endeavors, saying, "We are suffering" and urged the graduates to focus on the right trajectory, working hard and meaning well for their fellow friends, community, and family. He commended the good qualities of the Naga people, including their hospitality, fearlessness, and boldness, and urged them to channel their strength in the right direction.
The Regional Director of IGNOU Kohima, Premila Swamy D, informed the audience that the center was established in 2000 with 32 students and has since grown to over 20,000 students, offering 240 programs, including certificate programs to postgraduate programs, with 3,318 learners enrolling for 94 programs in 2024.
The convocation ceremony was attended by Commissioner and Secretary, Higher Education, Rajesh Soundararajan, Ex-Officio Director, Higher Education, V. Lovitoly Sema, and others.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/education-is-not-just-about-earning-degree-certificate-minister-along
Category : Nagaland , Education
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Publish Date: 2025-03-05 20:41:00
