The Mokokchung College of Teacher Education (MCTE), Yimyu, concluded its vibrant ‘Fusion Fest’ after four days of celebration from 27th February to 1st March 2024, themed “Navigating our Roots.” Dr. T Alemla Longkumer, Principal of MCTE in her welcome address highlighted the imperative to protect, preserve, and nurture our physical, social, and cultural surroundings, emphasizing the college’s fundamental values. She also stressed on the need for promoting our rich value system and practices.

The event featured insights from Guest Speaker, P. Tiatemsu, Assistant Professor at Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung, and Advisor at Arju Centres Mokokchung, advocating for resilient work ethics, recognizing the interconnectedness of life forms, and preserving Indigenous Knowledge Systems. Special performances by Taliyanger, Khensa Students’ Union, and a Fusion Harmony was presented by Student Teachers representing different Naga tribes; and Imnasenla and Bendangtila presented a special item, ‘Naga Lima’ on Day 1 enriching the festivity.

Cultural and Literary Competitions were held among the participating institutions from Mokokchung. The first position in Traditional Fire Making was secured by Imchatoshi and Katikaba Longkumer (DIET, Mokokchung), followed by Ato V. Achumi and Ngugha Yeptho (Fazl Ali College) in the second position, and Nungsangmeren and Tongpangmei (People’s College) in the third position.

For the Extempore competition, Medemren (Jubilee Memorial College) secured the first position, while Tiarenla Longchar (Fazl Ali College) and Moasenla (DIET, Mokokchung) secured the second and third positions, respectively.

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In the Folktale Narration competition, Imlimenla B Longkumer (Jubilee Memorial College) secured the first position, followed by Imolemla (Mokokchung College of Teacher Education, Yimyu) and Imlikokla (Fazl Ali College) securing the second and third positions, respectively.

The Duet competition in local dialects was won by Khusazungba and Limasenla Langu (Mokokchung College of Teacher Education, Yimyu) securing the first position, and Kimennaro Pongen and Longchady Longchar (Jubilee Memorial College) securing the second position.

The prize money for all the Cultural and Literary Competitions was sponsored by the Society of Alumni, MCTE.

The festival also witnessed an amalgamation of both Indigenous and Modern Games where the MCTE family displayed their sportsmanship and rootedness in culture. Team Hornbill emerged as the overall champion, taking home the ‘Champions’ Trophy donated by the Principal, MCTE.

Indigenous stalls also showcased various indigenous food items and artisanal products made by alumni and current student teachers. Additionally, the stalls featured photo booths, local cuisines, recreational games, haunted houses, etc., exhibited by different clubs of the college.

To celebrate the successful completion of the ‘Fusion Fest,’ a Musical Spectacle was organized, featuring various local artists including Imlinochet Kichu, Aosunep and Friends, Putunaro, Longtsati, and Temsuakum, along with student teachers, performing mixed genres of music and dance, ending the fest with much pomp and show.

The four-day ‘Fusion Fest’ aimed to bridge the gap between indigenous and modern cultures, changing the entire ambiance of the college into a rich rainbow of cultural heritage and traditional knowledge. This fest serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving, protecting, and promoting indigenous culture and the environment, and also aims to inculcate a deep sense of respect for cultural roots in every individual.