Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio virtually laid the foundation stones and launched nine Lighthouse School Complexes (LSCs) at an official launch programme on June 4 at CMRC, Kohima. The initiative is part of the Nagaland Education Project – The Lighthouse (NECTAR), aimed at transforming school education in the State.
Launching the programme, Dr Rio expressed satisfaction over the steady progress of the LSCs under NECTAR and noted that Nagaland’s education sector is witnessing significant reform. He underscored the transformative potential of education, particularly at the primary level, in shaping the future of the State’s youth.
He commended the Department of School Education and the Lighthouse (NECTAR) project for their innovative work which aims to transform classrooms and teaching methods and overall, reform the entire ecosystem of schools in the State. He also extended gratitude to the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and the funding partners for their continued support.
Dr. Rio highlighted the importance of empowering students to compete on equal footing with peers from across the country through well-equipped and inclusive learning spaces.
Principal Director, Directorate of School Education, Shashank Pratap Singh, IAS gave a brief on the various activities and projects undertaken under the Nagaland Education Project – The Lighthouse (NECTAR) including the SMILE App and the training and professional strengthening of employees under the department.
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The foundation stones of the following Lighthouse School Complexes (LSCs) were virtually laid by Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio.
- GHSS Medziphema Town, Chumoukedima district
- GHSS Phek Town, Phek district
- GHS Sitimi Town, Kiphire district
- GHSS Satakha, Zunheboto district
- GHS Chessore, Shamator district
- GHS Noklak Village, Noklak district
- Bautung GHSS Longleng, Longleng district
- N.I. Jamir GHSS, Mokokchung district
- GHSS Dimapur, Dimapur district
Previously, on December 1, 2024, the Chief Minister had laid the foundation stones of seven other LSCs located in Mon, Kohima, Niuland, Peren, Tseminyu, Tuensang, and Wokha.
Each Lighthouse School Complex is envisioned as a model hub of academic excellence, supporting nearby spoke schools with improved infrastructure, inclusive education, teacher training, and community engagement. The LSCs aim to serve Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) and provide facilities for Children with Special Needs (CWSN).
Under the NECTAR project, one Lighthouse School Complex (LSC) each will be developed in 16 districts of Nagaland. LSCs will be spaces of holistic learning fostering inclusivity, strong community engagement and constant innovation thriving on local knowledge of the communities.
Currently, the foundational works for all 16 Lighthouse School Complexes are being laid and the NECTAR Engineering Team is closely monitoring the progress. The construction works are by being carried out with strict adherence to the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards to avoid potential adverse project impacts while promoting sustainable development. The total cost for the construction of the 16 LSCs has been estimated at Rs 198.57 crores.
