The District Level Teachers' Award Ceremony in Kohima was held on 3rd September 2024 at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School, Kohima with Deputy Commissioner Kohima, Kumar Ramnikant, IAS, as the special guest. The ceremony honored outstanding educators in the district for their dedication and contribution to the field of education.
Four teachers received the Kohima District Teacher Award 2024. The awardees included Zhazolie Metha (L/T-GHS Botsa), Kezhalezo Solo (G/T-GHS PWD), Albert Tungoe (G/T-GHS Forest Colony), and Katia Lohrü (Asst. Teacher- Alderville Hr. Sec. School, Jotsoma).
The ceremony also recognized the Best Performing School Heads, sponsored by the DEO Kohima, Sr. SDEO Kohima, and SDEO Chiephobozou. The honorees were Neingukholie Vielie (Teacher-in-Charge, GPS Peducha), Supeno Mozhui (Head Teacher, GMS Phezoucha), Kekhriengulie Khezhie (Teacher-in-Charge, GPS Tekhuba), Khrietseinuo Yano (Head Teacher, GMS Ziezou), Rose Chishi (Vice Principal, Dr. N Kire GHSS, Seikhazou), Rukuvito Kikhi (Asst. Headmaster, GHS Sakhabama), and Rev. Fr. Charles Dsouza SJ (Principal, St. Paul's Institute, Phesama).
In his address, Deputy Commissioner Kumar Ramnikant IAS congratulated and expressed gratitude to the teachers while highlighting the important roles teachers play in shaping the students' future. He acknowledged the selfless dedication of teachers and their often-overlooked hard work. "Teachers act as catalysts in students' lives," he said, "and the impact of their guidance is immeasurable, influencing not just students but everyone around them."
He urged teachers to embrace the concept of "learning to unlearn," so they can continually adapt and grow. "In a rapidly changing world, teaching methodologies are evolving, and educators must update themselves regularly, just as software requires updates." He emphasized the importance and investing in personal development and highlighted that all teachers are equal and should provide equal treatment to every student within their capacity.
Director of School Education, Wonthungo Tsopoe, emphasized the importance of the day, recognizing the services of the honored teachers. He compared their role to that of gardeners, nurturing the next generation and reaping the fruits of their labor in the form of successful students. He urged teachers to introspect on their efforts and continue to inspire others with love, empathy, and sincerity.
ANPSA President Zhopota Rhakho also congratulated the awardees, describing teaching as a calling beyond a profession. He reminded teachers of the lasting impact they have on their students, encouraging them to set higher standards and lead with wisdom, resilience, and moral integrity.
District Teachers Award recipient Kezhalezo Solo thanked the School Education department and stated that the rewards and challenges boost their morale to continue doing good work. He expressed gratitude to those who have supported them and added that students motivate them to improve their teaching strategies and practices. He also praised his colleagues for their hard work and emphasized the need to continue working together collaboratively.
The program was hosted by Tiarenla Keditsu, with Rev. Dr. Kevichalie Metha offering an invocation of God's blessings. DEO Kohima, Emilo Patton, delivered the welcome address. The event featured a special musical performance by the students of Fernwood School, followed by an "Ode to Teachers" presented by a student from GHS New Market. GHSS Jotsoma gave a special cultural presentation, and the event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Neisiesa Chüsi.
(DPRO Kohima)
