The Khiamniungan Students’ Union (KSU) has welcomed the approval of a New Model Degree College for Noklak district under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), describing it as a significant step towards expanding access to higher education in the remote district.

In a statement, the KSU expressed gratitude to the governments of Nagaland and India, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Minister for Higher Education and Tourism Temjen Imna Along, and the Department of Higher Education for their efforts towards strengthening higher education infrastructure in underserved areas.

The Union also acknowledged the Ministry of Education, Government of India, for supporting the initiative under PM-USHA, noting that the Department of Higher Education has officially recorded the approval of New Model Degree Colleges for Noklak and other districts.

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The KSU said the availability of a higher educational institution within the district would be particularly significant for students of geographically remote areas, providing them an opportunity to pursue higher studies closer to home and reducing the challenges associated with travelling to distant locations for education.

The proposed institution, it said, could serve not only as a centre of higher learning but also as a platform for skill development, research, innovation and youth empowerment, contributing to the educational and socio-economic development of Noklak and surrounding areas.

The Union further acknowledged the contribution of government departments, officials, public representatives, stakeholders and individuals involved in advancing the initiative.

The KSU expressed hope for the timely implementation and operationalisation of the college with adequate infrastructure, qualified faculty, academic facilities and student-support services, and urged that the institution uphold the principles of quality, accessibility, inclusivity and academic excellence envisioned under PM-USHA.