The three-day Olivian Fest, themed “Harmonising arts, igniting passion,” kicked off on Wednesday at Mount Olive College in Kohima.

During the opening ceremony, Khevitho T Shohe, former Director of Social Welfare, highlighted the significance of events like Olivian Fest. He stressed that these informal gatherings provide students with a welcome break from their regular studies and a chance to unwind. Shohe encouraged students to use such events as an opportunity to discover their talents and abilities while drawing a parallel between this exploration and how various groups and organizations in society improve when they engage in a variety of activities.

Shohe reminded everyone that excelling in exams is just one path to success, urging students to explore different avenues for self-expression and to understand that each individual possesses a unique gift from God.

He encouraged students to excel in areas such as music, dance, cooking, storytelling, or humor, as these talents can be the foundation of their future careers. Shohe also emphasized that everyone has their own calling in life, and students should strive to use their talents to reach new heights and gauge the appreciation of others.

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The Principal of the college, Swedezhono Tsükrü, expressed her appreciation for the overwhelming response from students, faculty members, and the institute’s governing body. She revealed that organizing the festival had unveiled the “hidden talents” of the students.

The inaugural events included a display of ethnic cuisine, indigenous games, and a lively cosplay contest. Both past and present students presented songs, contributing to the festive atmosphere.

The Olivian Fest will continue more with the Cultural Day on Thursday. The celebration will conclude with a Literature and Alumni Meet, a debate, extempore speech competitions, and “Olivians Got Talent,” followed by the much-anticipated Olivian Feast on Friday. Earlier, Tokheni Sema, Chairperson and Managing Director of the governing body of Mount Olive College, hoisted the Olivian Fest flag,  Khekavi Yeptho, pastor of Sümi Baptist Church, Kohima, invoked God’s blessings.

The program was chaired by Dr. Lipoktoshi, an assistant professor in Commerce, and Vetoli H Chophy offered the benediction.