A significant step towards strengthening government school infrastructure was marked with the inauguration of multiple new facilities at PM SHRI Government High School (GHS), New Market, Kohima, on Wednesday. The newly launched facilities include an Atal Tinkering Lab, Science Lab, ICT/Computer Lab, Library Room, and Vocational Lab.
Advisor for School Education and SCERT, Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, delivered an extensive and candid address during the inauguration programme at PM SHRI Government High School, New Market, Kohima, emphasizing community participation, systemic reform, and the need to rebuild trust in government schools.
Speaking at the programme, Yhome highlighted the collective effort behind the establishment of the school infrastructure, stating that the plot measuring about 24,000 square feet was purchased by the community at a high cost of ₹5.5 lakh. He said he has been encouraging the community to acquire more land if possible, adding that contributions may be required from all stakeholders, including the state.
He further stressed the need for an approach road and urged community members to actively participate in its development.
Acknowledging the efforts of the school administration, Yhome saluted the leadership of the headmaster along with 33 teachers and 3 MTS staff who are managing the school and training around 301 students. He noted that the school has been appearing in matriculation examinations since its inception as a high school in 2016. This year, approximately 24 to 26 students are expected to appear for matriculation, while Class 9 currently has about 60 students across sections.
Reflecting on enrolment trends, he stated that the school had a peak of 246 students in 2023, after which numbers declined. However, this year saw 60 new admissions, including 19 students who migrated from private schools. He also cited a similar case at a recently inaugurated high school in Pesuchah, where 64 new admissions were recorded, including 34 students shifting from private institutions.
He expressed encouragement at such trends, particularly in urban community schools that cater to working-class populations, noting that these institutions add significant value despite limitations such as land constraints.
Yhome remarked that while schools in the state are generally improving, many changes are still required. He pointed out that despite economic challenges, many families continue to prefer private schools, calling it a flaw in societal thinking. He emphasized that government teachers are qualified, but systemic issues have discouraged confidence in public institutions.
He stated that the education system is being re-evaluated, acknowledging that its design has been flawed. As part of reforms, the government is redesigning the ecosystem of schools, covering both government and private institutions. He noted that many private schools lack adequate infrastructure and that government schools, despite their shortcomings, are often comparable or better in several aspects.
In this context, Yhome announced the establishment of the Nagaland School Standards Authority, which will introduce decisive measures to regulate and maintain standards across all schools. He explained that the redesigned system will be based on three pillars: infrastructure, governance, and curriculum and pedagogy.
On infrastructure, he said improvements will continue through sustained investment. Regarding governance, he expressed satisfaction with improved teacher attendance and administrative efficiency at various levels, including district and directorate offices. The third pillar, curriculum and pedagogy, will focus on strengthening teaching quality through structured training.
He informed that teachers are now required to undergo a minimum of 50 hours of professional training, particularly in leadership development, under the newly established School Leadership Academy. This training has been made mandatory, and those who fail to comply may face stagnation in their careers. He added that further reforms will be introduced in the coming years to rebuild public trust in government schools.
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Welcoming new students, Yhome expressed happiness over the enrolment of 19 new students and said the addition of new facilities would enhance learning outcomes. He noted that the newly introduced buildings, apart from classrooms, would improve scientific understanding, mathematical thinking, and practical skills. He also appreciated the inclusion of vocational education such as knitting, retail, and entrepreneurship, describing them as “small but important steps” toward holistic development.
Addressing on-going challenges, he mentioned that the department is currently dealing with protests but described them as distractions from the larger mission. He acknowledged the presence of excess, unnecessary, and unfit teachers as legacy issues that are being addressed as part of broader reforms. He reiterated that rebuilding society must begin in classrooms.
Yhome also pointed out the high cost of maintaining schools, especially in urban areas where land is expensive, making it difficult to expand infrastructure. Despite this, he expressed optimism, noting that schools are striving to improve and compete.
He stressed the importance of understanding schools as systems, calling for a comprehensive approach to reform. He also touched upon the social and cultural context, stating that as a predominantly Christian society, there is a need for system-based thinking aligned with societal values.
He observed that while the state has successfully expanded access to education by establishing schools in villages, it has also allowed unregulated growth of private schools. Addressing concerns from private school associations, he clarified that the government is not against them but aims to create a balanced system where both sectors can contribute. He emphasized that while the central government and private sector have roles to play, the state must take primary responsibility.
Highlighting the role of education in leadership building, Yhome noted that government schools have historically produced leaders, while private institutions are increasingly shaping society today. He expressed hope that collaboration among all stakeholders would help nurture a new generation of leaders.
Appealing to local leaders and community members, he called for collective efforts to improve school infrastructure, including the approach road and footpath. He acknowledged the care and support shown by the community and urged continued cooperation.
Concluding his address, Yhome raised safety concerns about the school’s location, describing it as a sinking area that poses risks to students. He suggested using locally available indigenous methods to construct protective fencing, emphasizing that such solutions can be implemented at minimal cost through community initiative.
Guest of Honour and MLA Tseilhoutuo Rhutso questioned whether government school teachers enroll their own children in government institutions, urging introspection and commitment. He also proposed upgrading primary schools to higher secondary levels to boost enrolment and improve accessibility.
Commissioner & Secretary for School Education and SCERT, Kevileno Angami, commended the New Market community for its proactive role in supporting the school, particularly in land procurement. She noted that community involvement is a key factor in the success of educational institutions across the state.
Highlighting state-wide statistics, Angami stated that Nagaland has 1,881 government schools and 813 private schools, with only about 40% of students enrolled in government institutions. She encouraged parents to recognize the benefits offered by government schools, including free uniforms, textbooks, and midday meals, and called for a shift in mindset to value public education.
Earlier during the inaugural program , Seyievituo, Assistant Pastor of Flames of Fire Baptist Church invoked the gathering, a welcome address was shared by Kekhriezhazo Dzüvichu, and a special performance by students. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Kenny Peseyie.
