The Jo Foundation Inclusive School Organised a musical “sound of music” at the RCEMPA, Kohima on the 1st August, 2026. This was organised basically to keep the spirit of inclusion alive and to share the love, joy and unity of our society and to raise funds for the much-needed school building.
The musical started with a blessing from Revd. Dr. Kedo Peseyie, Pastor, City Church Kohima, followed by the presentation on “the Heart Behind the Musical” by Dr. Asunu Thong, who welcomed the congregation and stated that the performance of the program is much more than a music. She said that it is a celebration of hope, inclusion, perseverance, and the remarkable difference that love can make in the lives of children. Every story has a beginning, and it begins more than four decades ago, she noted.
Dr. Asunu Thong highlighted her fondest memories of watching The Sound of Music with her paternal grandmother. She could neither read nor understand English, yet she was captivated by the film. She noted that her grandmother taught something profound that the language of love, kindness, courage, and music transcends words.
In 2010, Jo Foundation Inclusive School was founded with just eight students, two of whom were children with special needs. The school was named after Tejopi, meaning "blessing," their eldest son, whose journey with severe non-verbal autism became the inspiration for creating a place where every child is valued, accepted, and given the opportunity to flourish.
Year by year, the school grew not simply in numbers, but in purpose. Families entrusted the school with their children, while the teachers dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to nurturing every learner. Students discovered their strengths, built friendships, and exceeded expectations.
In 2022, the Jo Foundation celebrated a milestone that once seemed almost impossible when the very first batch of students successfully completed their Class 10 examinations. It was a powerful reminder that when children are given understanding, encouragement, and the right opportunities, they can achieve far more than the world sometimes expects.
She noted that as the school continues to grow, so does the need for a permanent home, a campus thoughtfully designed to meet the diverse learning needs of all students. She also stated, that the musical performance is also a fundraiser. Every ticket purchased, every donation given, and every word of encouragement brings one step closer to building a dream, with part of it to the brothers and sisters of Mon.
The Sound of Music she said, reminds us that love gives courage, music brings healing, families are built through compassion, and hope can triumph even in difficult times.
In conclusion she hoped that the musical performance will be more than beautiful songs and memorable characters, but to see the dreams of many children, the dedication of countless teachers, the faithfulness of generous supporters, and a community coming together to build a future where every child belongs.
Jo Foundation Inclusive School thanked the Almighty God for the provisions and everyone present for believing in the vision and for standing with the school. The school also thanked Rev. Dr. Kedo Peseyie, The King Chilli team, Media team, Highland dawn media, Doordashan Kohima team, Photographer Kekhrie, Decibel for Projector, Affa sound for the Mike, Sound Engineers from RCEMPA, all well-wishers, families and friends, all JF parents / guardians, the participating students who took the extra mile to prepare their children, and teachers of JF.
(DIPR)
