Beyond the classroom: Niuland student leader on balancing academics and public service

Kohima

BY | Sunday, 1 November, 2026
L-R: General Secretary, Alumni Association SJC (A) Audrey Thekrungunuo, Media Coordinator Max Marius Menuse-O, Alumni Awardee Likivi Sumi and President Thepfuvizo Peter Vizo during the 36th Graduation Day.

In an age where students often struggle to balance academics with community responsibilities, Niuland student leader Likivi Sumi’s journey offers a relevant example of how both can be managed with focus and discipline.

Beyond academics, Likivi, a post graduate from the Department of Economics, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous) Jakhama – SJC (A), has been serving as the Finance Secretary of the Niuland Town Students’ Union, a position she has been holding since February 2026 with a tenure of two years.

Her teachers have lauded her all-round excellence, strong leadership qualities and her commendable ability to balance academic commitments with community responsibilities.

On her balance of academics and community leadership, Dr Mohd Faishal, Assistant Professor & Coordinator, Department of Economics, SJC (A) said, “Likivi’s ability to balance academic commitments with community leadership is truly commendable,” while interacting with Max Marius Menuse-O, Media Coordinator, Alumni Association of the college.

“Her role as finance secretary reflects a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to community service. I believe her academic background in Economics provides a valuable foundation for financial decision-making, resource management, and responsible leadership,” added Dr. Faishal.

Likivi has been conferred the ‘Alumni Award for the Best Post Graduate Student of the College during the academic year 2026’ by the Alumni Association SJC (A), during the 36th Graduation Day, recently.

According to her teacher, the achievement reflects all-round excellence, strong leadership qualities and a commendable balance between academic commitments and community responsibilities.

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Commenting on her achievement, Faishal said, “Likivi Sumi distinguished herself as a dedicated, responsible, and well-rounded student with a commendable commitment to both academics and extracurricular activities. She demonstrated strong leadership qualities, a positive attitude towards learning, and a willingness to contribute to departmental initiatives. Her achievements reflect a balanced approach to academic excellence and personal development.”

Likivi who received the Alumni Award said the honour is not just an achievement but also a reminder of her journey, hard work and the support she received from others. She said she now wants to focus on building her career, gaining more experience and contributing to society while remaining open to higher studies.

The award, which carries a citation, trophy and cash incentive, was presented to Likivi where she was among the six students who received individual awards.

She received the honour from Rev Dr Fr George Keduolhou Angami, Principal, SJC (A), and B Henok Buchem, NCS, Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, who graced the occasion as the special guest.

The Alumni Award has become an integral part of the various awards conferred during graduation day at the college, recognizing all-round excellence.