Category: Events

A one-day Financial Literacy Awareness Programme was organized on 26^th February 2025 at North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), 7^th Mile Chumoukedima, Nagaland. The event aimed to equip trainees with essential financial knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions.

The resource person for the program, Ms. Isile Nza, Capacity Building Officer, CRISIL Foundation, Nagaland, highlighted the importance of financial literacy in today’s economy. She emphasized that individuals should control money rather than letting money control them. She noted with concern that financial literacy in Nagaland stands at a mere 8%, stressing the need for greater awareness and education on financial management.

Ms. Nza stressed the importance of saving money for unforeseen medical emergencies, old age, housing, and other essential needs. She explained the fundamental difference between needs and wants and urged the participants to prioritize their needs over their wants. Furthermore, she provided insights into various types of banking accounts and advised trainees on how to choose the right account and agencies for saving purposes.

Encouraging early investment and disciplined saving habits, Ms. Nza reiterated that starting with a small amount can yield long-term benefits, ultimately reducing financial dependency. She highlighted that saving should be a top priority rather than a last resort. The session also covered government schemes such as the Atal Pension Yojana and other financial instruments available for securing the future.

In addition, Ms. Nza warned participants about financial frauds and scams, urging them to remain vigilant and cautious in financial dealings.

The programme commenced with a warm welcome by Rev. Fr. G.L. Khing, who emphasized the significance of financial education in achieving economic stability and self-reliance. The session was chaired by Mr. Lokhum L. Yimchunger, a student of MSW 4th Semester, who efficiently facilitated the discussions.

NEISSR remains committed to fostering financial literacy and empowering individuals with the knowledge necessary for financial well-being. This initiative aligns with the institute’s mission to develop socially responsible and financially aware individuals.

https://www.morungexpress.com/financial-literacy-in-nagaland-stands-at-a-mere-8: Financial Literacy Awareness Programme held at NEISSR

Justice Begins Within: NEISSR Advocates Self-Accountability on World Social Justice Day

North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) Chumoukedima, Nagaland commemorated the World Day of Social Justice emphasizing the role of social work trainees in fostering justice and equity. The event featured Shri Nosazol Charles Chaya, State Information Commissioner, Government of Nagaland, as the Special Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Nosazol Charles Chaya highlighted the significance of social justice in the field of social work. He emphasized that social justice begins with self-accountability, explaining that justice is not merely expecting society to be just but ensuring that individuals uphold justice within themselves first. Even when unable to actively help others, people should at the very least refrain from causing harm through words or actions. True justice starts with individual responsibility, and when each person embraces this principle, justice can prevail in society.

He further emphasized the importance of aligning with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a crucial step toward achieving justice. He urged social work trainees to work towards uplifting the poor and marginalized, advocating for a society that is fair and inclusive. Social justice is realized when the underprivileged are empowered and given opportunities to thrive. Selfishness and greed must be set aside to create a just society. He also reminded the trainees of the moral and spiritual dimension of justice, emphasizing that those who act justly are recognized and rewarded.

The event was chaired by Ms. Diyala Yimkhuing, a BSW 4^th Semester trainee. NEISSR Principal, Dr. Fr. Anto, extended a warm welcome to the gathering, setting the tone for a thought-provoking session. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Toli H. Kiba, Assistant Professor, expressing gratitude to all attendees and contributors for making the event a success.

NEISSR continues its commitment to fostering social justice through education, advocacy, and active engagement in societal issues, preparing its trainees to be responsible and compassionate social workers.

Students from the Master of Social Work (MSW) 2nd Semester and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) 4th Semester of North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) recently completed 10-day rural camp at Tsupfume and Zapami villages in Phek District. 

NEISSR Desk in a press release stated that some of the major activities were Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA). The PRA process included Resource Mapping, Social Mapping, and Seasonal Mapping. Upon completion, the maps were handed over to the village as valuable tools to help in future planning and development. 

The students organised cleanliness drive throughout the villages; made bamboo dustbins, which were placed around the villages for waste disposal; and created flower pots from plastic bottles. 

During the cultural night, the students performed traditional folk songs and dances. A sports day was organised by the students to encourage physical activity, teamwork and community interaction. The students also carried out health and hygiene awareness session.

They also observed World Cancer Day with a session on cancer prevention, emphasizing the importance of early detection. A mental health awareness programme was conducted, with an act play that aimed to reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues and promote mental well-being within the community.

The students also organised a DIY Livelihood Training for the children of Zapami village. The students taught the children how to create handmade items such as earrings, rings, and paper bags, which not only generated creativity but also imparted practical skills that the children could use in their daily lives. 

Further, the students embarked on an Exposure Visit to Mt Kapamodzü.

https://nagalandpost.com/index.php/2025/02/02/neissr-students-embark-on-rural-camp-in-phek/: NEISSR trainees undertake rural camp to Tsupfume, Zapami https://www.easternmirrornagaland.com/north-east-institute-of-social-sciences-and-research-students-embark-on-rural-camp-in-phek-district: NEISSR trainees undertake rural camp to Tsupfume, Zapami

Day 1: 23^rd January, 2025

SESSION 1:

Dr. Fr. C.P Anto led a thought- provoking session on innovative approaches in development. He mentioned about deficiency in the society like lack of societal development, civic sense, political and religious issues. He highlighted some key perspectives of approach in development.

1) Charity level of development

2) Right based Approach

3) Developmental Approach

4) Capacity Development Approach

5) Do no harm Approach

6) Strength based Approach

Dr. Fr. Anto emphasized the importance of adopting a strength-based approach, concentrating on inherent strengths rather than weaknesses.

Dr. Fr. Anto also explored the psychoanalytic theory and Eric Berne’s concept of ego strategies which describe three ego states:

1) Child ego

2) Adult ego

3) Parent ego

He then encouraged self-reflection, urging individuals to acknowledge and compliment their own strengths.  He emphasized the importance of recognizing and building on individual and community strengths, allowing weakness to fade into the background.

SESSION 2:

RESOURCE PERSON: Prof. Dr. Gladston Ashok Xavier, Former Dean of students and HoD Department of Social work, Loyola College, Chennai.

Prof. Dr. Gladston Ashok Xavier led an engaging session focused on self-awareness, positive relationships, and community building.

Self-Portrait Exercise: Participants created self-portraits, reflecting on:

1. How they see themselves

2. How others perceive them

Dr. Xavier emphasized the importance of positive relationships in personal growth and development.

Self-Discovery and Happiness: He encouraged participants to:

1. Understand themselves better

2. List ten things that bring them happiness

3. Learn about their community

The session concluded with an interactive exercise, where participants got to know each other better and asking each participant to describe the session in one word, fostering a sense of reflection and community.

___________________________________________________________________________

Day Two: 22^nd January, 2025

SESSION 1:

The second day’s Session One commenced at 9 am with the arrival of the esteemed resource person, Prof. Dr. Gladston Ashok Xavier, Fromer dean of students and HoD department of Social Work Loyola College, Chennai. The session had students from NEISSR and Don Bosco, Maram and if began with an engaging activity where students shared the bio-data of their assigned peers, showcasing unique and interesting aspects of each other.

Following this, the next activity focused on understanding societal dynamics. Students from Don Bosco College, Maram, joined the NEISSR students, and together they were divided into their own respective tribal groups and tasked with brainstorming the essence of their tribe. Each group presented distinctive answers, highlighting the richness of their cultural heritage.

This interactive exercise fostered teamwork, allowing students to share their individual knowledge and gain insights into the diverse cultures represented within the group.

Session Two:

The second session started at 1:30 PM after the lunch break, with all the students reassembling in the classroom. It began with a passing ball game designed to enhance communication and alertness among participants.

Following this, the students were divided into five groups, and each group was tasked with performing a short skit focused on real-life issues, encouraging teamwork and creativity. The session concluded with a feedback discussion where participants shared their thoughts and experiences. The day ended at 4:45 PM as the students departed.

___________________________________________________________________________

Day 3: 25^th January, 2025

Prof. Dr. Gladstone Ashok Xavier briefed on the constitution of AICUF on the third day. A major milestone of the event was the formation of the first-ever AICUF unit at NEISSR and in Nagaland. Mr. Philip Vaipei was democratically elected as the President, with Ms. Geganli Rufina as Vice President, Ms. Tsarikumla Christina as Secretary, Mr. Kihito P Swu as Joint Secretary, and Mr. Richard Sangma as Treasurer. Ms. Judith Huidina Assistant Professor and Ms. Elizabeth Pojar Assistant Professor were appointed as the unit advisors.

The workshop ended with a vote of thanks by Sr. Shaidaris of BSW 6^th Semester and a group photo with the resource person.

https://nagalandpost.com/index.php/2025/01/30/neissr-hosts-leadership-training/: AICUF Leadership Training Program

North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) organized a transformative series of National leadership Seminar programs from January 22-25, 2024, in collaboration with Haggai India. The event featured distinguished resource persons who guided participants through a series of insightful and impactful sessions.

The Four-day National Leadership Seminar on Haggai Leadership featured influential resource persons from Haggai India, empowering participants with invaluable leadership insights. Mr. Jose Anthony Elengical, Executive Director of Haggai International, shared the foundational vision of Haggai International, which seeks to transform nations through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He introduced the Haggai Model—Select, Equip, Encourage, and Multiply—and explored two leadership models: Traditional and Servant leadership. Elengical emphasized the importance of self-reflection, prayer, and guidance in shaping one’s vision.

Dr. Sedevi Angami, Director of CIHSR Dimapur, offered insights on Christian leadership, focusing on the ability to influence and inspire others. He highlighted the significance of loving Christ in leadership and encouraged participants to serve as channels of blessings through stewardship. Ms. Menuo Keditsu of Haggai India emphasized the importance of communicating the Gospel to the next generation, recognizing diverse callings. Meanwhile, Mr. Leo David sharing key Biblical principles for evangelism, stressing the urgency and joy of spreading the Gospel. Rev. Biswa Ratna Rai of Haggai India facilitated a practical session on life’s mission and goal-setting, addressing both secular and Christian perspectives.

The three-day leadership training program for Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students, organized in collaboration with the All India Catholic University Federation (AICUF), featured Prof. Dr. Gladston Ashok Xavier, Former Dean of Students and HoD Social Work at Loyola College, Chennai, as the key resource person. Prof. Dr. Xavier led interactive sessions focused on societal analysis, self-awareness, positive relationships, and community building. Participants were guided through a self-portrait exercise to explore how they see themselves and how others perceive them. His sessions emphasized fostering positive relationships for personal and communal growth, incorporating activities on self-discovery and happiness urging the trainees to be catalyst for change and justice.

The valedictory programme of the Haggai National Leadership Seminar featured Rev. Mosses Murry, Chairman of the Christian Forum Nagaland, as the special guest. In his address, Rev. Murry encouraged the Haggai graduates to embrace qualities of truthfulness, faithfulness, and goodness, and to invite the presence of the Holy Spirit into their lives. He emphasized that the seminar was a historic and life-changing event, urging participants to view it as a foundation for spiritual growth, leadership, and community development. MSW 4th Semester trainees Melajungba Jamir and Tshekukhro-u Akami shared their key learnings from the seminar. Mr. Leo David from Haggai India presented the seminar report. Dr. Fr. C.P. Anto, Principal of NEISSR, expressed pride in the institution being the first secular college in Nagaland to host such transformative leadership training and urged trainees to instil hope in others and not to lose hope. The programme concluded with the awarding of certificates to 71 participants. Ms. Nlumpeule Assistant Professor chaired the event, and Rev. Marshal Lyngdoh seminar manager delivered the vote of thanks and ended with a prayer by Rev. Biswa Ratna Rai.

https://nagalandpost.com/index.php/2025/01/30/neissr-hosts-leadership-training/: National Leadership Training in Collaboration with Haggai India

Radical Transformative Leadership (RTL) Workshop

Resource person          : Mr. Sudarshan Rodiquez, CEO and Founder RTL Works

Objective:

The RTL workshop aimed to empower MSW 2nd-semester students to become catalysts for transformative change in their respective spheres. The workshop focused on developing radical transformative leadership skills, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and resilience.

Day 1: Date: 23/01/2025

Day 1 ” Radical transformative leadership”  held on 23rd January 2025 at 9:00 am. Sir Sudarshan Rodiquez as our distinguished resource person for an inspiring workshop on Radical Transformative Leadership (RTL).With his extensive expertise and visionary insights, Sir Rodiquez empowered participants to explore and embrace the principles of transformative leadership, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity,  and resilience Through a blend of interactive sessions, case studies, and reflective exercises.

The first session gave us an introduction to the core concepts of radical, transformational and leadership.

Followed by exercise at 10:00 am sir sudarshan rodiquez led an engaging and thought-provoking exercise on Universal Values and Fear. This session was designed to help us reflect on our core values, understand the role these values play in leadership, and explore how fear can influence decision-making and personal growth.

At 1:15 pm, As a part of the workshop, Sir Sudarshan Rodiquez facilitated a movie-based exercise featuring the classic film 12 Angry Men. The session, held shortly after the morning activities, providing a unique opportunity for the students to analyze leadership dynamics, decision-making processes, and group behavior in a compelling real-world context. The film, a courtroom drama, follows the intense deliberations of twelve jurors tasked with deciding the fate of a young defendant.

 The 1st day of The Radical Transformative Leadership Workshop concluded with a reflective and empowering session facilitated by Sir Sudarshan Rodiquez, where the students   synthesized their learnings from the day. The workshop ended at 4:00 pm with a collective sense of purpose, equipping MSW 2^nd semester with tools, and motivation to become catalysts for transformative change in their respective spheres.

Day 2: Date: 24/01/2025

On 24th January 2025, the 2nd day of “Radical Transformative Leadership” Commenced at 9:00 am. The Session began with a meditation and reflection on what the students learned on the previous. The first topic of the workshop was on Service and trust where the Student did an exercise on courage, bravery and daring our Source of courage and Capacity for action.

The next topic was on Systems and cultural Norms where the students learned about how certain systems and certain cultural norms function in our Society. A Short film “Story of Stuff” by Annie Leonard was shown to the students which gave better insights to the students on what System is and how it functions. The Speaker emphasizes that we don’t require to be systems analytics or classical system thinkers but rather we require to activate our pattern mind and our critical thinking mind to see what is working or not.

The afternoon session began at 1:15 PM on ‘Background Conversation and Leadership” Where  the Students did an exercise to find some flaws in the society and learned about right/wrong, not responsible, us/them, either/or and not enough through an example addressing HIV and AIDS. The last session was held by Mrs Clasika through a Visual presentation on ‘Partial ways of Action and Results’ and explained her project about ‘Conscious Full spectrum Response Model’. She shared an example with her project which gave insights to the students on how to design their own project. An exercise was taken to give better understanding to the students where they were told to design their own project and mention an issue that the students saw in their own villages and how the problems show up and what changes can be visible and taken by the students.

The 2nd day of the workshop came to an end where the students learned to identify their principles and shifts to design initiatives and enhance our ability of critical thinking about self and society in order to be more effective in generating results. The workshop ended at 4:15 with a quote by Albert Einstein.

Day 3: Date: 25/01/2025

On 25th January 2025, the 3rd day of “Radical Transformative Leadership” commenced at 9:15 am. The session began with a meditation and reflection of day 2 and the learning, after which students shared their reflections with their partners and some students shared their learnings with the audience as well as part of the session and an activity of learning.

After a short break, an activity was conducted on the three types of complaints – Recreational complaints, expressive complaints and action complaints. After which an activity was done on the model worksheet on conscious Full Spectrum Response model and where improve their projects from yesterdays.

And reflection was done on the worksheet and followed by a session on ‘Feedback and growth’ where the students learned the importance and value of feedback. And followed by sharing the project with partners and learning how to receive and give feedback.

The session concluded with some quotes shared by the resource person and a vote of thanks by Mr. Khumti of MSW and a word of appreciation by Dr.Fr C.P Anto and concluded the programme at 3:05 p.m.

The RTL workshop successfully equipped MSW 2nd-semester students with the skills and motivation to become radical transformative leaders, driving positive change in their communities.

Key Learnings:

1. Students learned to identify principles and shifts to design initiatives and enhance critical thinking skills.
2. Participants gained insights into radical transformative leadership, innovation, inclusivity, and resilience.
3. The workshop empowered students to become catalysts for transformative change in their respective spheres.

Documentation:

Khumti, Savino, Esther, and Awakhing documented the workshop proceedings.Radical Transformative Leadership (RTL) Workshop

Resource person          : Mr. Sudarshan Rodiquez, CEO and Founder RTL Works

Date                            : 23-25 January 2025

Time                            : 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Venue                          : NEISSR

Objective:

The RTL workshop aimed to empower MSW 2nd-semester students to become catalysts for transformative change in their respective spheres. The workshop focused on developing radical transformative leadership skills, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and resilience.

Day 1: Date: 23/01/2025

Day 1 ” Radical transformative leadership”  held on 23rd January 2025 at 9:00 am. Sir Sudarshan Rodiquez as our distinguished resource person for an inspiring workshop on Radical Transformative Leadership (RTL).With his extensive expertise and visionary insights, Sir Rodiquez empowered participants to explore and embrace the principles of transformative leadership, emphasizing innovation, inclusivity,  and resilience Through a blend of interactive sessions, case studies, and reflective exercises.

The first session gave us an introduction to the core concepts of radical, transformational and leadership.

Followed by exercise at 10:00 am sir sudarshan rodiquez led an engaging and thought-provoking exercise on Universal Values and Fear. This session was designed to help us reflect on our core values, understand the role these values play in leadership, and explore how fear can influence decision-making and personal growth.

At 1:15 pm, As a part of the workshop, Sir Sudarshan Rodiquez facilitated a movie-based exercise featuring the classic film 12 Angry Men. The session, held shortly after the morning activities, providing a unique opportunity for the students to analyze leadership dynamics, decision-making processes, and group behavior in a compelling real-world context. The film, a courtroom drama, follows the intense deliberations of twelve jurors tasked with deciding the fate of a young defendant.

 The 1st day of The Radical Transformative Leadership Workshop concluded with a reflective and empowering session facilitated by Sir Sudarshan Rodiquez, where the students   synthesized their learnings from the day. The workshop ended at 4:00 pm with a collective sense of purpose, equipping MSW 2^nd semester with tools, and motivation to become catalysts for transformative change in their respective spheres.

Day 2: Date: 24/01/2025

On 24th January 2025, the 2nd day of “Radical Transformative Leadership” Commenced at 9:00 am. The Session began with a meditation and reflection on what the students learned on the previous. The first topic of the workshop was on Service and trust where the Student did an exercise on courage, bravery and daring our Source of courage and Capacity for action.

The next topic was on Systems and cultural Norms where the students learned about how certain systems and certain cultural norms function in our Society. A Short film “Story of Stuff” by Annie Leonard was shown to the students which gave better insights to the students on what System is and how it functions. The Speaker emphasizes that we don’t require to be systems analytics or classical system thinkers but rather we require to activate our pattern mind and our critical thinking mind to see what is working or not.

The afternoon session began at 1:15 PM on ‘Background Conversation and Leadership” Where  the Students did an exercise to find some flaws in the society and learned about right/wrong, not responsible, us/them, either/or and not enough through an example addressing HIV and AIDS. The last session was held by Mrs Clasika through a Visual presentation on ‘Partial ways of Action and Results’ and explained her project about ‘Conscious Full spectrum Response Model’. She shared an example with her project which gave insights to the students on how to design their own project. An exercise was taken to give better understanding to the students where they were told to design their own project and mention an issue that the students saw in their own villages and how the problems show up and what changes can be visible and taken by the students.

The 2nd day of the workshop came to an end where the students learned to identify their principles and shifts to design initiatives and enhance our ability of critical thinking about self and society in order to be more effective in generating results. The workshop ended at 4:15 with a quote by Albert Einstein.

Day 3: Date: 25/01/2025

On 25th January 2025, the 3rd day of “Radical Transformative Leadership” commenced at 9:15 am. The session began with a meditation and reflection of day 2 and the learning, after which students shared their reflections with their partners and some students shared their learnings with the audience as well as part of the session and an activity of learning.

After a short break, an activity was conducted on the three types of complaints – Recreational complaints, expressive complaints and action complaints. After which an activity was done on the model worksheet on conscious Full Spectrum Response model and where improve their projects from yesterdays.

And reflection was done on the worksheet and followed by a session on ‘Feedback and growth’ where the students learned the importance and value of feedback. And followed by sharing the project with partners and learning how to receive and give feedback.

The session concluded with some quotes shared by the resource person and a vote of thanks by Mr. Khumti of MSW and a word of appreciation by Dr.Fr C.P Anto and concluded the programme at 3:05 p.m.

The RTL workshop successfully equipped MSW 2nd-semester students with the skills and motivation to become radical transformative leaders, driving positive change in their communities.

Key Learnings:

1. Students learned to identify principles and shifts to design initiatives and enhance critical thinking skills.
2. Participants gained insights into radical transformative leadership, innovation, inclusivity, and resilience.
3. The workshop empowered students to become catalysts for transformative change in their respective spheres.

Documentation:

Khumti, Savino, Esther, and Awakhing documented the workshop proceedings.

https://nagalandpost.com/index.php/2025/01/30/neissr-hosts-leadership-training/: Radical transformative leadership

North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Peace Centre, Chümoukedima, held its orientation programme for the 2025 academic session on January 21. 

Dr Fr CP Anto, Principal, NEISSR highlighted various leadership training programmes planned for the month for the first time in NEISSR such as AICUF Training for BSW Students, Radical Transformative Leadership for MSW 2nd semester, and Haggai National Leadership Training for MSW 4th semester. 

Dr Toli H Kiba presented the first session on the “Professional Progressive Circle (PPC).” He introduced the PPC model, aimed at empowering students through self-employment and innovative problem-solving. Dr Kiba encouraged collaboration in small groups, highlighting the importance of commitment and creativity in their initiatives.

Dr Lily Sangpui, Assistant professor addressed the critical role of fieldwork practicum and community engagement in social work education. She emphasised that social work is a practice-based profession, providing students with hands-on experience to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Dr Sangpui outlined the numerous benefits of fieldwork, including professional skill development, understanding client systems, and fostering personal growth.

The final session, led by Rev Fr GL Khing, Vice Principal and Administrator, focused on the significance of goal setting. He stressed that self-assessment and a clear vision are essential for achieving success. Fr Khing encouraged students to set realistic and achievable goals, reminding them that personal and professional growth begins with dedication to their studies and active participation.

The first day of the orientation concluded with feedback and evaluations from students, marking a successful start to the academic year.

The programme was led by Nlumpeule Zeliang, Assistant Professor at NEISSR, and began with an opening prayer by Dr Toli H Kiba, also an Assistant Professor. Earlier, the orientation featured an engaging icebreaking session led by Yantsumong of MSW 4th Semester, which included interactive games and group storytelling.

https://nagalandpost.com/index.php/2025/01/22/neissr-kicks-off-2025-academic-session/: NEISSR conducts Orientation Program