Director, Higher Education Nagaland, V Lovitoli Sema addresses the 2025 Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) Freshers’ Social at the Bundrock Auditorium on August 23.
Chümoukedima, August 24 (MExN): “Excellence is not achieved in a single strike but through consistent effort, discipline, and a willingness to learn, unlearn, and relearn,” stated V Lovitoli Sema, Director of Higher Education, Government of Nagaland, while addressing the Freshers’ Social of Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) on August 23.
Speaking at the Bundrock Auditorium on the theme “Genesis: A Journey Towards Excellence,” Sema reminded the freshers that education today is not confined to textbooks and classrooms. “It is about nurturing values, shaping character and equipping oneself with the challenges to face the world,” she said.
She stressed that excellence is not about competing with each other, but about striving each day to be a better version of oneself. Urging the new students to remain curious, ask questions, seek knowledge, respect diversity, and nurture friendships, she said college life brings both opportunities that open doors and challenges that build resilience.
“But let it be a journey of becoming individuals of character, compassion and vision; the future of our society and our State lies in your hands. Walk this path with courage and remember that true excellence lies in service to others,” she added.
The Higher Education director noted that Patkai, with its academic legacy and holistic formation, provides the right environment for such growth. She said the experience in college would prepare students not only for careers but also for life, assuring them that with perseverance, humility and faith, excellence would be within reach.
As an alumna of Patkai, Sema described her alma mater as a place “where friendships blossomed, faith was nurtured, and lessons were learned beyond academic” which she continues to carry with gratitude. She acknowledged the founder, faculty and stakeholders for their roles in shaping young minds.
Earlier, PCC Principal Dr Thepfuvilie Pieru welcomed the gathering, Students’ Union PCC (SUPCC) President Heme Sumao delivered the presidential address, and Sentijungla M spoke on behalf of the undergraduate freshers. The programme also featured cultural displays and performances by students of the Margaret Shishak School of Music (MSSM).
Yongkonglemba Chang was crowned Mr Patkai and Yume Doke adjudged Miss Patkai. Akivi V Asumi and Chingmi Khangrah were named first runners-up. The judges included Hikali Achumi, Miss Nagaland 2022 and Miss Beautiful Smile Northeast 2023; Chanchui Khayi, Femina Miss India Manipur 2024 and Mega Miss Northeast India 2023; and Hangba Chang, winner of I Am Model Search International Malaysia 2023 and Mr Global Model India 2022.
The event featured a band performance by Mid-Day Six, a special dance by Encore Duex, and live acts by Haku Talem, Grace Swuro and other guest artists.
