An aerial view of Tsütoho village in Zunhebotodistrict.
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | August 17
In the village of Tsütoho under Zunheboto district, a group of dedicated individuals have come together to provide free lodging and care for students of the Government Middle School through a remarkable community initiative—the Mt. Chingkhu Hostel. The hostel, which currently accommodates 24 students, is fully run and funded by members of the Mt. Chingkhu Progressive Society, without any direct support from the government.
The village’s Government Middle School, with a total enrollment of 44 students—Kizari -12; Kutisu-7; Sohomi-4; Tuensang-1; Tsutoho -20, has been facing challenges similar to many other government schools across Nagaland: low enrollment, shortage of staff, and limited infrastructure. However, Mt. Chingkhu Hostel has emerged as a ray of hope, offering students not only a place to stay but also a nurturing environment where learning is encouraged both inside and outside the classroom.
The hostel is managed by two wardens, whose responsibilities go beyond just caregiving. They also assist in teaching at the school, which currently has only five teaching staff managing nine classrooms. The support provided by the wardens has been crucial in ensuring that the students receive a more rounded and continuous educational experience.
The entire operation is sustained through contributions made by members of the Mt. Chingkhu Progressive Society, including local businesspersons and well-wishers from the village. Monthly expenses such as food, lodging, and staff salaries including that of the hostel cook are borne entirely by the society. On average, the hostel consumes about 6–7 bags of rice and 2 bags of dal per month. While providing meat daily remains a challenge, the society is grateful to the village Gaonburas who occasionally contribute meat for the children.
During a recent visit, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Zunheboto, Obed Bohovi Swu, SFS, interacted with the students and praised the efforts of the community. “I’m truly touched by what you all are doing,” he remarked, addressing the hostel children. “You are not different from those students’ whose parents pay Rs 10,000–Rs 20,000 per month for education. You are equal to them and you can even be better. All you need is hard work, discipline, and a strong sense of community.”
Encouraging the students to dream big, Swu cited the example of the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, who rose from humble beginnings as a teacher to become the head of state. “It’s not about ‘I, me, and myself,’ but ‘we, ours.’ When you become successful, remember those who helped you and give back to society,” he urged. He also spoke about the importance of keeping the village and its surrounding forests clean, noting that in the future, visitors will be drawn to the area’s natural beauty, provided it is preserved.
The Mt. Chingkhu initiative, which began only in early 2025, stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose. The founders hope that the government will recognize and support their efforts in the years to come.
