Kohima College organized an international public lecture on Ireland and the Empire, bringing together scholars, students, and dignitaries for an insightful academic exchange at Kohima College, Kohima on December 3. The event, hosted by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell in collaboration with the Embassy of Ireland, featured Professor Jane Ohlmeyer of Trinity College Dublin as the resource person. Dr. Eunice Alinger of the Department of History, Kohima College moderated the programme. Advisor for School Education & SCERT, Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome graced the occasion.

Irish Ambassador to India, Kevin Kelly, who attended the lecture, thanked the people of Nagaland for their warm welcome during the Hornbill Festival and highlighted Ireland’s cultural engagements, including performances by an Irish group and the installation of the Celtic statue Danu. He added that Nagas, like the Irish, seek peaceful solutions today.

Addressing recent attacks on Indian nationals in Ireland, he condemned the incidents as shocking and unrepresentative, reaffirming Ireland’s commitment to the safety and dignity of its Indian community.

In her lecture, Professor Ohlmeyer explored Ireland’s historical relationship with the British Empire, describing it as both a colony and a contributor to imperial expansion. She discussed how Ireland became a “laboratory of empire,” influencing colonial practices later applied in India, and highlighted the significant presence of Irish administrators and soldiers in British India.

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She also traced connections between Irish and Indian nationalist movements, noting how strategies such as boycotts influenced Mahatma Gandhi. Further, she expressed hope that the collaboration between Ireland and Nagaland would grow more in future.

Principal Dr Vitsosie Vüprü thanked the Embassy for its collaboration and shared the history of the college and the courses it offers. The programme concluded with a short interaction session.