Keystone Education Society organised a seminar on “Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education; Building a Future Where Every Learner Counts” at The Lighthouse Church, Hill View Colony, Dimapur on June 28. The programme was aimed to foster awareness, inspire collective action, and promote meaningful dialogue towards achieving inclusive education for all.
Delivering the keynote address, Dimapur Deputy Commissioner Dr Tinojongshi Chang underscored the need for inclusive and equitable education in Nagaland. Stressing that education is a fundamental right for every child regardless of gender, location, economic status, or disability, he called for concrete steps to realise the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which prioritises leaving no child behind, especially those from marginalised communities, tribal groups, and children with disabilities.
Dr Chang emphasised that true progress is possible only when every child is given the opportunity to learn and grow. He highlighted the need for inclusive schools that embrace diversity and provide adequate support through scholarships, regional language resources, trained educators, digital access, and specialised assistance for students with disabilities.
While acknowledging that policies exist on paper, he pointed out the urgent need to prepare schools and educators to effectively meet diverse learning needs. He urged all stakeholders to work together to overcome barriers such as poor infrastructure and high dropout rates, and to ensure that education remains joyful, empowering, and relevant.
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Sharing a personal account of his late sister who, despite her strong desire to study, was denied schooling due to her disability, Dr Chang called on society to ensure that no child is deprived of education because of physical challenges. He emphasised that universal education should not be seen as just an aspiration but as a collective responsibility, and called for united efforts to make inclusive education a reality in Nagaland.
Keystone Education Society President, Lanusongla Lemtur in her welcome address spoke on the organisation’s vision of creating inclusive schools for an inclusive society. She highlighted the society’s ongoing work in Dimapur and Mokokchung, including early intervention support through the Anitet Early Intervention Centre run in partnership with Charis Education Society. She stressed the need for collaboration among families, professionals, churches, community leaders, NGOs, and government bodies to achieve meaningful inclusion and better transitions for students with special needs into higher education.
The seminar featured presentations by experts covering various aspects of inclusive education. Hope Academy’s Sashila Ozukum spoke on building an inclusive school culture, while Orentsani N. Kithan, Senior Psychologist at CIHSR’s Developmental Pediatrics Department, highlighted the importance of early screening, assessment, and intervention.
ISL Interpreter and Special Educator (HI), Temsurenla, addressed myths and realities surrounding sign language and hearing impairment. Inclusive Education RP Jalukie, Ngaugongbe Hega, shared strategies to support children with visual impairments in schools. Occupational Therapist Ashish Kindo of CIHSR introduced the role of occupational therapy in education, while Speech & Language Pathologist Keneitsolo U. Koza spoke on supporting speech and communication development for children with speech and language difficulties.
Prodigals’ Home Director, K Ela highlighted the critical role of community participation in supporting the inclusion of children with special needs in schools and society. The seminar concluded with a call for action delivered by Keystone Education Society Executive Member Esther Jamir.
The event was chaired by Chanmayo J. Aier, Administrator of Charis High Academy, Chümoukedima. The programme began with an invocation by Pastor Wabang Longchari, Lead Pastor of The Lighthouse Church, and featured a testimony from Pastor Dr. Bokishe V Sema of Nitozou Baptist Church. The session concluded with audience interaction, closing remarks, and a benediction by Pastor Edward Odyuo of The Lighthouse Church.
