Mount Tiyi College, Wokha, commenced its two-day Autumn Fiesta 2026 on the theme “Roots, Rhythm & Revelry” at the college campus on October 29. The event is organised by the college’s Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), with support from the Alumni Association.
Mhathung Yanthan, MLA and Advisor for Agriculture, Government of Nagaland, attended the opening day as the special guest, while Er S Benrio Kithan, president of the Lotha Officers’ Association, Wokha Unit, was the special presence.
In her welcome address, Principal, Dr Bweyhunle Khing emphasised that culture should not be confined to festivals, traditional attire, music and dance, but should also be reflected in people’s character, conduct and service to society.
Reminding students of the values upheld by their forefathers, she called for a renewed commitment to honesty, discipline, unity, respect and compassion. She also encouraged students to cultivate civic-mindedness, cleanliness and a strong work ethic, stating that cultural heritage must be preserved through everyday actions and responsibility towards society.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Libemo Kithan, Associate Professor and Convenor of the Organising Committee, said the fiesta was envisioned as an opportunity for the college community to move forward with renewed purpose and direction. He expressed appreciation to the principal, organising committee, colleagues, Alumni Association and student leaders for their collective efforts in organising the event.
Explaining the theme, he said “Roots” represented identity, ancestral wisdom and cultural values, while “Rhythm” symbolised the diverse experiences and expressions of students that could come together in harmony. “Revelry,” he added, represented the joy of shared experiences and the importance of celebrations in the learning process.
Referring to the National Education Policy 2020, he highlighted the importance of holistic education that develops students intellectually, socially, physically, emotionally and ethically, rather than focusing solely on academic qualifications.
He also encouraged students, alumni and parents to contribute towards the growth of Mount Tiyi College, describing it as the only government college in Wokha district.
Addressing the gathering, Mhathung Yanthan appreciated the students’ cultural performances and commended the organisers for showcasing the traditions and way of life of their forefathers.
He encouraged students to remain connected to their roots and preserve their cultural identity while progressing in life. He also wished the college success in its academic and cultural endeavours.
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During a special interactive session titled “Beyond the Podium: A Conversation with the Special Guest,” Yanthan shared his journey into politics, revealing that he had not initially aspired to become a politician and entered public life following his retirement from service, in response to the wishes of the people.
The session provided students an opportunity to engage with the MLA on his experiences and challenges in public service.
S Zubenthung Ngullie, president of the Lotha Students’ Union, in his greetings, stressed the need to preserve indigenous culture, language and traditions for future generations. Drawing comparisons with countries that have progressed while retaining their cultural identity, he cautioned against allowing traditional knowledge and practices to survive only through photographs, performances or stories.
He also urged students to take greater responsibility for increasing enrolment and strengthening the institution, encouraging them to strive for academic excellence and help make Mount Tiyi College a preferred destination for higher education in the district.
Advocate Oren Lotha, the college’s first graduate, recalled his association with the institution and expressed gratitude to the faculty members who contributed to his success. Encouraging students, he shared three guiding principles: “Know who you are, know what you are, and know where you stand,” emphasising the importance of self-awareness and understanding one’s place in society.
The opening day, observed as Cultural Day, featured cultural performances, competitions and activities celebrating cultural heritage, identity and diversity.
The programme began with an opening prayer by Lungraiding Ndang of the United Evangelical Students’ Initiative (UESI), followed by a folksong presented by the MTC Cultural Club. Students also staged a drama titled “Our Roots, Our Identity,” while Nepali students of the college presented a cultural performance.
The afternoon session featured the Grand Competition Hour, chaired by Dr W Meribeni Patton, Assistant Professor. The session was compered by Nchumbemo Ezung of the fifth semester and Mhabeni T. Ezung, Assistant General Secretary of the Mount Tiyi College Students’ Union (MTCSU). Dr I Koktiba, Assistant Coordinator of IQAC, delivered the welcome address.
Folk dance and folksong competitions were held among students of the first, third and fifth semesters. Kithan also addressed the gathering, followed by a traditional couple show open to all communities.
Traditional games, including bamboo pole climbing for boys and bamboo stilt walking for girls, were scheduled from 3 pm to 4 pm under the coordination of the Alumni Association. The programme also included painting displays and stalls.
Dr Alice Kenye, Assistant Coordinator of IQAC, delivered the vote of thanks, while Motsuthung Yanthan, an alumnus of the college, pronounced the closing prayer.
The second day of the fiesta, scheduled for October 30, will feature K. Mhathung Tsanglao, Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, as Guest of Honour for Session, I Nzano Kikon, Vice-Chairperson of Wokha Town Council, is scheduled to attend Session II, while Dr KN Zubemo Humtsoe, Chief Veterinary Officer, Wokha, is listed for Session III.
