Dimapur, Feb 25: Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio was conferred Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) by North East Christian University (NECU) during its 1st Convocation Ceremony at Anchor Complex, Burma Camp in Dimapur, Nagaland, today. The ceremony was graced by La Ganesan, Governor of Nagaland and visitor of NECU, as the graduation speaker.
Neiphiu Rio was conferred the Doctor of Letters in recognition of his contributions to public service and leadership.
Meanwhile, Governor La Ganesan, in his address, congratulated the graduates and emphasized the significance of the occasion, encouraging the graduates to carry forward the knowledge, empathy and dedication they have cultivated at NECU.
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Highlighting NECU’s unique academic approach, the Governor lauded the institution’s commitment to blending classroom education with mandatory community service, preparing students for impactful contributions to society. He also noted the university’s efforts to address the lack of quality higher education institutions in Nagaland, which often forces students to seek education outside the Northeast at significant expense. Through international collaborations and specialized programmes such as International Relations, Korean Language and Indigenous Studies, NECU has been playing a crucial role in equipping students for global opportunities.
The Governor also commended NECU’s initiatives to preserve and promote local heritage, particularly through the Annual Symposium on Naga Culture, which has gained international recognition alongside the Hornbill Festival. The university’s accreditation by NABCB to certify traditional healers was noted as a significant step in integrating Indigenous knowledge with modern practices, an achievement that has drawn global attention.
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Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, speaking on the occasion, stated that education, global collaboration, and the role of young leaders shape the future of Nagaland. He acknowledged the university as a centre of academic excellence and a hub for transformative ideas, nurturing minds that dare to dream beyond borders.
Rio highlighted the unique challenges faced by the state and the need for innovative thinking and perseverance in addressing them. Encouraging the graduates, he recognized their resilience and hard work, urging them to strive for excellence in their respective fields and contribute to the development of Nagaland. He envisioned the state evolving into a global destination and a key contributor to India’s growth story.
Rio further called upon the graduating class to become passionate ambassadors of Nagaland on the global stage, embracing the state’s rich cultural heritage and sharing its story of courage, innovation, and unity with the world. He emphasized that true progress lies in building bridges across cultures, fostering peace, and developing innovative programmes that bring hope and prosperity to every community. Concluding his speech, Rio reaffirmed his dedication to advancing education, international dialogue, and community development.
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(Newmai News Network)