The Department of English, Kohima College, organised the 10th series of Naga Writers Speak on 10th October 2025 at 11am at the conference hall.
The resource person was Dr Jungmayangla Longkumer, Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension Education, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University. Besides being a seasoned academic, she is also an illustrious literary figure, writer and a poet and is known popularly for her notable works “Pottery: Earth Stories”(2009), “Gift in the Pot: Earth Poetry” (2014) ,“Naga Notes”(2025), “Haiku”(2025).
Chairing the programme, Dr Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Assistant Professor, Dept. of English, Kohima College, extended the welcome note and stated that Naga Writers Speak was conceptualised to bring Naga writers to interact with students and enriched their learning experience.
Addressing the students and faculty, Dr Longkumer reflected on her writing career and shared some insightful and valuable life lessons which she learnt along the way. She also recounted her initial journey as a writer, acknowledging the crucial role played by her teacher and friends in recognising her literary talents and instilling confidence in her to believe in herself. Reflecting on building her craft as a writer, she avowed, “I learned to take critical assessment as the most important factor in improving myself and my art.”
Drawing inspiration from her own experiences as a writer, she exhorted the students not to be afraid of making “mistakes” but to “be an influencer in courage, persistence, strength, integrity and true friendship.” She emphasised on the importance of finding one’s voice in any skill set and transform the voice into action through mindful living, making intentional choices and cultivating healthy habits.
Further drawing on the analogy of the red wood tree, she reiterated the importance of building unshakeable foundation in our lives by building “a strong intertwined community with family values and teamwork as the foundation.”
The highlight of the event was the inauguration of Book Bank by the guest speaker. Khriezenuo Angami,
Associate Professor & HOD, Dept. of English highlighted the objectives of the Book Bank. It is an initiative of the Department of English aimed at providing books to students of Kohima College. Book
bank is a collection of literary books generously donated by alumni, students and well-wishers.
Sungjeminla, Associate Professor, Department of English delivered the vote of thanks followed by light refreshment.
A total of 54 students and 10 faculty members attended the event. The programme concluded on a positive note with students participating actively in Q&A session.
