Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand receiving traditional Naga jewelry during her visit to Nagaland University, Meriema Campus on Wednesday.
“I will go back and see what can be done in Thailand,” said Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, during her brief visit to the Nagaland University (NU), Meriema Campus on February 26, who has suggested to offer scholarships to Naga students, exchange programs and send Thailand officials to visit Nagaland University.
Professor Lanunungsang, Pro-Vice Chancellor, while giving a brief introduction of NU, considered the Princess’s visit as history in the making for Nagaland University. The program was chaired by Dr. Jano L. Sekhose, Associate Professor while a folk song was presented by students of NU. Brief presentations were given by Professor Akali Sema; Imkonglemba, Commissioner and Secretary, School Education and F P Solo, Commissioner and Secretary, Higher Education.
While presenting on the topic, ‘Agricultural system in Nagaland and Agricultural Education in Nagaland University’, Professor Akali Sema suggested three points for possible Thai-Naga collaboration: skill development programs, turnkey projects and research work for PhD scholars.
Imkonglemba, Commissioner and Secretary, School Education informed that education in Nagaland is 140 years old and that the pre-primary education in Nagaland is way ahead of the Indian level.
FP Solo, Commissioner and Secretary for Higher Education spoke on ‘Higher Education System in Nagaland,’ where he suggested the need for strengthening of existing colleges in Nagaland, establishment of more agricultural colleges, engineering and medical colleges and provision of quality education.
The Princess assured the faculty and state officials of future collaborative programs where Nagaland and Thailand can work together, such as invitation of Naga students and teachers to Thailand for interaction with their counterparts, short-term courses and scholarships.
Following the interaction with the faculty, the Princess also inspected classroom teaching modules and interacted with the University’s students.
Thai Princess
visits Khonoma
The Princess also visited Khonoma on Wednesday. On reaching the British Bungalow, she was officially received by Minister for Social Welfare, Kiyanilie Peseyie; Parliamentary Secretary for Justice & Law, Land Revenue, Neikiesalie Nicky Kire; Chief Secretary, Banuo Z. Jamir and village elders. Youth, womenfolk, students and children in traditional attire throughout the village, lined up to welcome the Princess.
Along the way to Khonoma fort, the Princess was briefed on the history of the famous battle of Khonoma at the Damant Memorial by Charles Chasie. On reaching the Khonoma Fort at Semoma, various indigenous activities were exhibited by the villagers.
Princess Sirindhorn also interacted with the village leaders at Thevoma Khel Dahu. She was offered local food items like rice beer and puffed rice. An informal programme was held at Khonoma community hall, where the Princess unveiled the monolith erected in honor of her visit. Village youth sang a song for the Princess, followed by exchange of gifts and mementos.
With DIPR inputs
