September 3, 2026: Kohima College, Kohima, observed Teachers’ Day in advance with a special programme at the college courtyard on Thursday. The celebration brought together students and faculty to honour teachers for their guidance, dedication and contribution to shaping students’ lives.
The programme began with Mr. Hichulo Magh as the leader, who expressed gratitude to teachers for their guidance, love, memories and support. This was followed by an invocation led by Mr. Puhie J.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Vitsosie Vüprü, Principal of Kohima College, extended Teachers’ Day greetings and described teachers as the “changemakers of our life.” He thanked the students for organising the celebration and stressed the importance of teachers’ expertise and presence in the classroom. He also reminded students that teachers should be respected and honoured not only on Teachers’ Day but every day. The Principal presented tokens of appreciation to the teachers as a gesture of gratitude.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Mr. Wati Lkr (GS) extended Teachers’ Day greetings to the teachers and emphasised that the occasion should be more than an annual celebration. He said teachers mould students’ lives and often recognise their potential even when they fail to see it themselves. Referring to the words of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and Henry Adams, he highlighted the lasting influence of teachers.
The students presented traditional Angami necklaces to the women teachers and daos to the men as tokens of respect and appreciation.
In her address on behalf of the teachers, Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Assistant Professor, English Department, reflected on the responsibilities and challenges of teaching. Recalling a story about Dr. Radhakrishnan, she reminded the gathering that teachers are human, with flaws and limitations, and that educators too must remain willing to learn.
She emphasised that one of the greatest responsibilities of a teacher is to cultivate the capacity to be taught. Students, she noted, are themselves teachers to their educators, challenging assumptions, revealing shortcomings and encouraging teachers to improve. Sharing a personal experience from her early years of teaching, she recalled gaining a deeper understanding of her own teachers after experiencing the challenges of standing on the other side of the classroom.
Dr. Keditsu further stressed that teaching is a relationship in which students and teachers must meet each other halfway. Students should ask questions, express concerns and challenge assumptions when necessary. She highlighted the vision of higher education as a shared learning journey in which teachers and students walk side by side, with teachers serving as facilitators and guides.
She concluded by describing Teachers’ Day as a celebration of both teacher and student as lifelong learners, each capable of learning from and teaching the other. She also expressed gratitude to her colleagues and thanked the students for honouring the teaching fraternity.
The programme featured cultural presentations, including “An Ode to My Teachers” by Miss. Mhaleyonuo Khezhie, a special number by Miss. Atsolü, and a special appearance by The Tri Ds. The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Miss. Joytsna, followed by the benediction by Miss. Mercy.
The advance celebration served as a meaningful occasion for the Kohima College community to express gratitude to teachers while highlighting the enduring and reciprocal relationship between educators and students.
