From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of medical excellence—not every story begins with privilege. Some begin with dreams, sharpened through sleepless nights, long journeys, and a heart that refuses to give up. Meet Dr Nyemwang W Konyak, hailing from Lampong Sheanghah village in Mon district of Nagaland. He has achieved a feat that echoes far beyond academic halls—a historic moment that marks both personal triumph and collective pride for the Konyak tribe.
With quiet strength and unwavering determination, Dr. Nyemwang has been selected for the M.Ch (Master of Chirurgiae) Neurosurgery program at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH)—one of the most rigorous and prestigious medical programs in the country. He becomes the first person from the Konyak tribe to enter the elite realm of neurosurgery, a discipline revered for its extraordinary complexity and life-altering responsibilities.
In an exclusive interaction with Nagaland Tribune, Dr. Nyemwang shared his qualifications and experiences.
“I completed my MBBS at NEIGRIHMS, Shillong, where I trained from 2010 to 2015 and served as a Junior Resident in the ENT department of the same institution. In 2016, I returned home to serve my people, working as a Medical Officer under NRHM at Wakching CHC, Mon district. I then pursued an MS in General Surgery at Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Bihar, and later served as a Senior Resident in General Surgery at Nalanda Medical College and Hospital, Patna, while also working concurrently as a Consultant General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Patliputra Downtown Hospital. In the midst of this challenging pursuit, life dealt its hardest blow.”
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“Some of the toughest training—long surgeries, night duties, relentless study, countless hours in the operating theatre—have shaped me into a surgeon built on both skill and empathy,” he said, adding, “It is my ambition and passion. Neurosurgery combines precision, complexity, and emotional reward—saving lives and restoring hope to patients and families. My ability to remain calm under pressure, combined with empathy and the trust I earn, leads to optimal outcomes.”
Reflecting on the life story behind his achievements, he said, “It was only through God’s grace and my mom’s silent prayers and toil that I and my three siblings could receive the best education within her means. Watching her struggle to support us became the catalyst for me to strive not only to be a good surgeon but a good human being first.”
“Though I lost her in January 2023, her love, care, and teachings continue to leave a profound impact on my life. She was my strongest pillar. Her dreams were intertwined with mine, and although she could not witness this milestone, her presence lives on in every decision, every suture, and every life I touch. I’m sure she’s smiling from above, seeing me pursue my passion and purpose,” he added.
Konyak further said, “It is a privilege to be the first from the Konyak tribe to join this program, but I hope it also inspires juniors and students from remote villages and underserved communities. Where you begin does not define where you end. With perseverance and hard work, you can overcome any challenge. The road may not be easy, but you will reach your goal.”
“Dreams are like nerve impulses—act on them promptly, stay focused, work diligently, and always care deeply for your patients.”
