Bailey Baptist College (BBC) Wokha formally launched its foundation course in Music on Thursday, in a programme graced by Er Mhondamo Ovung, Chairman of Lotha Hoho, and dedicated by Rev Abemo Jungio, pastor of Wokha Town Baptist Church.
Delivering the welcome address, acting principal Penthungo Lotha highlighted the conceptualisation of the music class, stating that the initiative was felt necessary as hymn books now come with staff notation, making music literacy a priority. He expressed hope that besides the basic foundation course, students aspiring to pursue music professionally would be enabled to advance further in the field.
The college has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Milestone Music School, Dimapur, which is affiliated with Trinity College London. Ngullie informed that students would gain professional learning experience and sit for examinations, with certificates awarded by a reputed institution.
At present, the college has procured instruments for guitar, drums, and keyboard, and is ready to begin its first batch this year, anticipating enthusiastic enrolment.
Speaking as the special invitee, Er Mhondamo Ovung remarked that the community has yet to fully realize its identity, stressing the need to prioritize collective growth. He expressed concern that despite Wokha district having two colleges with good infrastructure and faculty, enrolment remains low. He urged parents and students to ease the economic burden by valuing education within the district.
“If you’re afraid to be different from others, then you have no right to identity,” he stated, while emphasizing the importance of promoting and preserving local language and identity. He noted that the Ministry of Education has classified English as a foreign language and encouraged the adoption of local and regional languages in line with new policy.
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Ovung appreciated the introduction of the music course at BBC, describing it as a catalyst for prosperity in the field of music and art within the community.
The event featured a musical presentation by Dr Yanpothung Ezung, head of the Department of Sociology, while Dr Apeni Lotha, retired director of higher education and president of the governing body BBC Wokha, delivered a short appreciation note. She urged students to take pride in learning music, observing that Naga society has always cherished music as an integral part of its activities. She added that the course would help identify talents and serve as an asset to the college.
The programme was chaired by acting principal Penthungo Lotha, while vice principal Achumbeni Humtsoe delivered the vote of thanks.
