Oriental College Kohima and Project Empathy has, on Friday, launched a first-of-its-kind project, ‘Naga Oral Histories: Stories of Empathy’, bringing together the rich tradition of Naga oral histories with the crucial concept of empathy. The initiative is sponsored by Centurion Constructions and aims to not only delve into the past but also equip students with valuable research skills and a deeper understanding of human connection.
The project kicked off with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the college principal and the project founder, Vibha Lakhera in a program at Oriental College Kohima.
The project is an attempt to connect with people of Nagaland, to know their personal stories and experiences, to know what transpired in the lives of people and what became part of history and culture. It is also an effort to know what has remained in the collective memories of people and why? The project will use the tool of oral histories to acquaint students with the concept and experience of empathy.
Insightful presentation on empathy, exploring its various facets and its role in everyday life was presented by the founder. Through interactive activities like “Cross the Line” and “Identity Portrait,” students were encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and develop their emotional intelligence.
The second leg of the project, led by Apala Naithani, the project coordinator, focused on the significance of oral histories as a tool for preserving counter-narratives. An engaging activity based on the Chipko movement brought to life the power of diverse perspectives, while the heartwarming story of a reformed tiger named Rao, transformed by empathy, resonated deeply with the participants.
This unique collaboration promises to be an enriching experience for both students and researchers, shedding new light on empathy within the Naga context. By combining academic rigor with interactive learning, the project empowers future generations to embrace empathy as a guiding principle in their lives and communities.
