Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse and others at the foundation day of Baptist College Kohima on August 23. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | August 23
Baptist College, Kohima celebrated its foundation day under the motto “Striving towards excellence” at Baptist High Auditorium, Kohima on August 23.
Gracing the occasion as the guest of honour, Nagaland Women Resource Development and Horticulture Minister, Salhoutuonuo Kruse complimented the college, adding that it should move forward and apply for an Autonomous College. She was hopeful that Baptist College will one day even be a deemed University.
She congratulated the college for reaching this milestone in the pursuit towards providing quality education in Christian setting and practice. She said that it is through the prayers of the believers and churches that the college since its inception in the year 1982 under the initiative of the Angami Baptist Church Council has come thus far.
She added that over the years, Baptist College has earned a reputation for academic rigor, holistic development and nurturing individuals who as leaders have contributed to the society in different capacities and she congratulated the management, the teaching and non-teaching faculty, the student past and present in this regard.
“Education today is not just about degrees- it is about developing individuals who are ethical, innovative and socially responsible. It is about shaping minds igniting curiosity and preparing individuals to face the challenges of the real world with courage and competence,” she said.
Kruse also mentioned that this era of rapid technological, environmental and cultural changes, the role of the institution has become even more critical.
She encouraged the students to remind themselves that they are the future of tomorrow and the society expects them to be thinkers, leaders and changemakers. She added that their ideas, skill and innovations will determine the direction of our society. As students prepare yourself and challenge the outdated norms and bring about a positive change.
In a Globalised world, understanding the problems and challenges of their locality is important but as global citizens one should think and act globally, she added. “Today, a time has come where with technological advancement students as well as teachers should make use of the technological advantages. We are faced with a challenge where human have to compete with technology taking into account the impact of Artificial intelligence challenges and concerns,” She said.
Kruse mentioned that Baptist College as one of the first college in the state which is 40 years plus since its establishment. In this regard, as the college celebrates the journey so far, she encouraged the college to move forward and apply for an Autonomous College where the college will have more flexibility in matters of syllabus, exams, academic calendars etc.
She added that traditional education which emphasis more on academic and theory-based learning and degree still holds importance but at the same time professional education and courses which is designed to provide practical skills that will prepare individuals for employment and career advancement has to be focused. She said this taking into account the state scenario where we have a lot of educated unemployed youths in the state.
Kruse added that Institutions for this matter have to take responsibility to introduce such courses where our students can avail various professional courses. It is therefore my advice to the college to introduce the various professional and career-oriented courses which is the need for our youths. “As an institution, the importance of the role of management, the teachers, the alumni and others cannot be overlooked in order to grow. The college needs a broader vision, broader ambition and space. Of the many aspects, any institution to grow need space where the college have a campus with enough space at Sechu campus which is an advantage to the college,” she said.
Teacher from the first batch Dr Kevileno Sakhrie Retired Academic and Educator Former HoD (English) Kohima College, Kohima and Student from the first batch Asano Sekhose, Retired Chairman Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) also spoke on the occasion.
The programme was chaired by Dr Tsenbeni Kennao. Earlier, Lighting of the Candle and Greetings was made Rev Savito Nagi, President, ABCC Executive Director, ABCC Rev Dr Rachülie Vihienuo blessed the programme with prayer. Chairman, Governing Body, BCK Vipralhou Kesiezie pronounced the welcome address. BCK Choir and staff of BCK presented special number. Dr Kewepfuzu Lohe Principal, Baptist College, Kohima pronounced the vote of thanks. Later, Rev Dr Kedo Peseyie, founder chaplain spoke at the session 2.
