Dimapur, August 30 (MExN): The first ever Centre of Social Work in Nagaland was established at Chuchuyimlang and was dedicated to the State on August 20 last.
As a part of the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education & Development (MGIED), established under the auspices of IGNOU – Nagaland Gandhi Ashram Education Project, the centre named the Mahatma Gandhi Centre of Social Work (MGCSW) would initially offer Master of Social Works (MSW). Bachelor of Social Work Course shall be added from the session 2011-12 onward. Gradually short term courses with special reference to Northeast context for various stakeholders in development field such as village development functionaries, government officials, NGO workers, health workers etc., shall be offered, informed a press note issued by Dr. Aotoshi, Trustee of Nagaland Gandhi Ashram, Chuchuyimlang.
The note mentioned that the MGCSW which has a capacity of 24 seats for the current session received 22 applications. Out of the above, 17 candidates were selected which has representations from Assam and Meghalaya as well, through an elaborate selection process conducted at Guwahati. Six female students enrolled for the course.
Moreover, the MGCSW which is currently based at Nagaland Gandhi Ashram complex will be gradually to the new complex being developed in a compact area of 230 acres of land donated by Chuchuyimlang Village Council without any “cost or conditions”. The complex will be developed as a flagship programme to commemorate the 25 years of existence of Indira Gandhi national Open University (IGNOU). Apart from the MGCSW, the complex will establish in phased manner six other institutes which includes teachers’ training, vocational training, agriculture demonstration, Gandhi museum, Centre for Gandhian Studies and North east Affairs and Centre for Naga Arts & crafts.
Further the note said that to commemorate the launching of the first batch, a dedication service was held at the Library Hall of RIeLIT Computer Centre, Chuchuyimlang. Prominent speakers on the occasion was Founder Secretary of Nagaland Gandhi Ashram Natwar Thakkar, Project Director of MGIED Prof RR Singh, members of Chuchuyimlang Village Council – Ladongyanger and Alemtetba, senior citizen of Chuchuyimlang town Subongmatong and member of Local Corrdination Committee of MGIED Ladongwati. The dedication prayer was pronounced by Pastor of Chuchuyimlang Town Baptist Church, Temjenlemzung, while Design Engineer i/c RIeLIT Computer Centre, Chuchuyinlang Lanuwapang was the master of ceremony.
