Chiimoukedima, October 22: The Alumni Association of the School of Agricultural Sciences (AASAS), Nagaland University, celebrated its 25th anniversary, the Silver Jubilee, with grandeur and heartfelt nostalgia at the Multi-Purpose Hall, SAS, NU, Medziphema Campus.
Held on Monday, October 20, the celebration brought together alumni from across batches, faculty members, and dignitaries to commemorate 25 years of shared growth, contribution, and unity.
The Special Guest for the occasion was Mhathung Yanthan, Hon’ble MLA and Advisor for Agriculture, Government of Nagaland. The Chief Host was Metsubo Jamir (1st Batch), Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, while the Honoured Host was A. Pangjung Jamir (5th Batch), Hon’ble MLA and Advisor for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Government of Nagaland.
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The event began with the unveiling of the Silver Jubilee Monolith by Yanthan, marking the symbolic opening of the celebration, followed by the Alumni Flag Hoisting led by Pangjung Jamir. The invocation prayer was offered by Prof. L. Daiho, former Dean, SAS, and the welcome address was delivered by K. Neibou Sekhose, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and the first President of AASAS. He warmly welcomed the gathering and reflected on the association’s journey over the past two and a half decades.
Adding to the emotional tone, the Alumni Choir, directed by Dr. Imliakum Ao (29th Batch) and Dr. Chubatemsu Ozukum (27th Batch), presented a soulful welcome song, followed by a “Reminiscence” session where senior alumni shared their fond memories and experiences from their time at the School of Agricultural Sciences.
A presentation on the “Journey of AASAS” by Prof. Akali Sema, Secretary of the Organizing Committee and the first General Secretary of AASAS, highlighted the milestones, achievements, and growth of the association over the years. The segment also featured video messages from alumni who could not attend the event.
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A felicitation ceremony followed, honouring distinguished alumni for their contributions. The Academic Excellence Awards were presented by Prof. L. Tongpang Longkumer (5th Batch), President of the Alumni Association.
The formal speeches began with an address by the Chief Host, Metsubo Jamir, followed by remarks from Marthon Sangma, Hon’ble MLA and Advisor, and Prof. Dipak Sinha, Pro-Vice Chancellor, NU, SAS. The EU Choir, coordinated by the EU President, also performed a special number before the release of the Silver Jubilee Souvenir.
In his keynote address, Mhathung Yanthan said the Silver Jubilee marked not merely 25 years of existence but 25 years of excellence, dedication, and transformation years of nurturing minds, shaping futures, and advancing agriculture in Nagaland and beyond. He called it a renewal of commitment and a reaffirmation of shared purpose, to uplift farmers, empower youth, conserve natural resources, and make agriculture once again a dignified and rewarding profession. He lauded the alumni for their continued contributions to agriculture and rural development, and stressed the importance of collaboration and innovation for sustainable growth.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks by Hoto Yeptho, Organizing Committee Member (1st Batch) and first Advisor of AASAS, who expressed gratitude to all guests, alumni, and participants for making the celebration a success. The session was compered by Dr. Moakala Changkiri (29th Batch), Scientist, AICRP on Vegetable Crops.
The afternoon featured a technical session chaired by Prof. Pauline Alila (5th Batch), Dean, NU, SAS, where alumni and experts discussed contemporary agricultural challenges and advancements. This was followed by the General Body Meeting of AASAS, presided over by Prof. L. Tongpang Longkumer, which reviewed the association’s activities and outlined future plans to strengthen alumni engagement and institutional development.
The day concluded with a vibrant cultural programme coordinated by Dr. Watilmongla Jamir (9th Batch), Former Director, SAMETI, where alumni and students presented lively performances celebrating the spirit of camaraderie and diversity within the SAS community.
As part of the celebration, several awards for academic excellence were also presented:
- AASASRD Award for Academic Excellence (B.Sc. Agri. 2021–2025): Nivedita Kumari (9.08 OGPA), carrying a cash prize of ₹20,000 and a certificate.
- Peri Om Pun Excellence Award (1st Year, 2024–2025): Neisinuo Shine Kiso (8.36 OGPA), sponsored by Dr. Umed Pun (7th Batch), carrying ₹10,000 and a certificate.
- R2 Seeds Excellence Award (2nd Year, 2024–2025): Wapangnaro S. Imsong (8.56 OGPA), sponsored by C. Narayana Rao (8th Batch), carrying ₹10,000 and a certificate.
- Lt. Cherish Ch. Marak Excellence Award (3rd Year, 2024–2025): Aysha Parween (8.58 OGPA), sponsored by Thera Ch. Marak (8th Batch), carrying ₹10,000 and a certificate.