The Kohima District Teachers’ Award Ceremony 2026 was held on September 3, 2026, at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima, to honour and recognise teachers for their dedicated service and contribution to the field of education. Dr. Pritpal Kaur, IPS, DIGP (CID), Police Headquarters, Kohima, graced the occasion as the Special Guest.
The highlight of the programme was the presentation of awards to four teachers in recognition of their commitment and valuable contribution to education. The awardees were Dr. Kikruneinuo Kuotsu, Graduate Teacher (GT), GHS Chandmari; Khriengusano Peseyie, Assistant Teacher (Tenyidie), Baptist Mission School, Jotsoma; Akali Aye, Headmistress, Regimental School, 4th NAP, Thizama; and Thejazelie Tase, Graduate Teacher (GT), GHS Nerhema Model.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Kaur described teachers as the “chisel” that shapes and builds students’ personalities, saying their role extends beyond imparting knowledge to nurturing values, discipline and character. Recalling her own mother, who was a teacher, she said teachers often treat their students like their own children and make sacrifices of their time and energy for them.
Highlighting the responsibility of teachers in society, she cited the example of a school principal in Nepal who reportedly saved the lives of 1,643 students during floods. She said such instances demonstrate that teachers are not merely educators but also protectors, mentors and guides who help build a better society.
Dr. Kaur encouraged students to respect their teachers, remain disciplined and use technology positively for learning. Sharing her own journey, she said she relied on a mobile phone and online resources while preparing for the UPSC examination due to financial constraints, demonstrating that technology can be a powerful tool when used constructively.
She urged students to pursue their passions and, after achieving success, give back to their communities by helping and guiding others. She stressed that education should have a larger purpose beyond securing a job and encouraged students to remain connected to their culture, traditions and roots.
Congratulating the awardees, Dr. Kaur said that while certificates and awards were meaningful, every teacher deserved appreciation for the contribution they make to society. She expressed gratitude to teachers for shaping generations and said their influence continues even after students leave school.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Akali Aye, Headmistress, Regimental School, 4th NAP, Thizama, expressed gratitude for the honour and said the award was both a recognition and a renewed responsibility to do better. She highlighted that a teacher’s impact may not be immediately visible but can be seen years later in the lives, confidence, careers and achievements of students.
Aye emphasised that teachers do more than teach subjects, describing them as builders of character who instil confidence, nurture dreams and sometimes change the direction of young lives. Referring to the growing role of technology and AI in education, she said that while machines can provide information and answers, teachers provide inspiration and recognise the person behind the marks.
She acknowledged the support of families, colleagues, school communities, parents, students and the District Education Department, and urged fellow awardees to carry the recognition as a commitment to continue inspiring, learning and serving children with purpose and humility.
The programme commenced with an invocation by Imtisangla, Sr. SDEO, Kohima, followed by the welcome address by Emilo Patton, District Education Officer, Kohima. Musical and cultural presentations included “Yet Not I but Through Christ in Me” by Regimental School, 4th NAP, Thizama; “Ode to Teachers” by Tongchingsangla of GHS Chandmari; and “Find Us Faithful” by Rangbey Khoubve of GHS Bayavü. St. Luke School also presented a tribute in honour of teachers.
The programme concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Visasielie Suhu, SDEO, Chiephobozou.
(DPRO Kohima)
