The Nagaland University Inspection Team visited the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), 7th Mile, Chumoukedima, Nagaland for the inspection towards granting permanent affiliation. The team was led by Prof. Mithilesh Kumar Sinha, Senior Professor, Department of Economics, as the Convenor, with Prof. Athungo Ovung, Professor, Department of Sociology, and Dr. Sandeep Gupta, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, as members.
The program began with an invocation by Dr. Fr. Robin Thomas, followed by a warm welcome from Dr. Fr. C.P. Anto, Principal of NEISSR. In his opening address, Dr. Anto highlighted NEISSR’s pioneering contributions in the field of social work, peace education, and community service. He emphasized the institute’s commitment to holistic student development and its unique position as the only institute in India offering a specialization in Peace and Conflict Transformation Studies (PCTS) under social work. He also underlined the significance of fieldwork focusing on tribal engagement, community enrichment, and addressing the diverse social problems of ethnic groups in the region.
Dr. Fr. Mathew Thuniampral, member of the Governing Board, appreciated the vision behind NEISSR and its efforts to shape leaders with compassionate hearts and broad minds. Representing the Diocese of Kohima, he shared how the Church envisioned the need for professional courses that encourage students to dream big and make a difference. He also extended his gratitude to late Prof. A Lanunungsang Ao, whose unwavering support has been instrumental since the institute’s inception.
Prof. Mithilesh Kumar Sinha, convenor of the inspection team, appreciated the vision and progress of the institute. He highlighted the pressing need to address growing social problems, even as India’s economy advances rapidly. He stressed the importance of real development grounded in human values and social justice, noting the visible conflicts and inequalities in society. Urging students of social work to take active responsibility, he emphasized their role in creating a just and humane society.
In his motivational address, Prof. Athungo Ovung encouraged students and faculty to maintain a positive attitude, dream big, and act with humility. He emphasized cultivating gratitude, self-esteem, and a desire for excellence, while urging greater engagement in research and innovation. He expressed his wish to remain connected with NEISSR.
Dr. Sandeep Gupta commended the unique concept of the Peace Lab and acknowledged NEISSR’s commitment to quality education. He lauded the institute for consistently producing UGC-NET qualified candidates and for maintaining academic standards.
A visual presentation showcasing the journey and impact of NEISSR was delivered by Ms. Elizabeth Pojar, Assistant Professor. The program was chaired by Ms. Nlumpeule, Assistant Professor, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Toli H. Kiba, Assistant Professor and IQAC Coordinator.
The visit marks a significant milestone in NEISSR’s pursuit of academic excellence and institutional growth as it moves towards securing permanent affiliation from Nagaland University.
