The inaugural programme of the three-day Workshop-cum-Hackathon on “Agentic AI Saksham” under PM-USHA commenced on May 7 at the College Auditorium of Kohima Science College (Autonomous), Jotsoma, Kohima. The workshop, being held from May 7 to 9, marks the first initiative of its kind in Nagaland – organized in partnership with Capabl.in, an AI upskilling platform. Bringing together creativity and technology, the programme aims to transform bold ideas into real-world solutions. The programme was chaired by Dr. Sedevikho Chase, Assistant Professor KSC(A)J, Convener of the Organizing Committee.
Vice-Principal, Kevilhuninuo Nagi delivering the welcome address describe the event as a milestone for the state. She remarked the relevancy of the famous saying “AI won’t replace humans, but humans who use AI will replace those who don’t,” while also quoting, “AI is the new electricity,” to highlight the transformative role of artificial intelligence in education and work.
She stated that the college has always stood as a beacon of academic learning and remains committed to keeping students relevant, adaptive, and future-ready. Emphasizing the significance of the workshop, she encouraged participants to “explore, innovate and push the boundaries,” adding that innovation begins with curiosity and grows through persistence. She also expressed gratitude to PM-USHA, the Government of Nagaland, Capabl.in and all departments and organizers involved in making the programme possible.
Addressing the gathering, Sentiyanger Pongen, State Project Director (RUSA/PM-USHA) and Additional Secretary, Department of Higher & Technical Education, Government of Nagaland, congratulated the college for becoming the first government college in the state to host such a programme under the initiative of the Ministry of Education, Government of India and acknowledged the initiative and efforts of Armstrong Pame, Joint Secretary (ICC & RUSA) Ministry of Education, in making the programme possible. He observed that Nagaland is steadily integrating with the national mainstream in the field of artificial intelligence.
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“Yesterday was the era of computers and calculators, but today we stand at the threshold of a new intelligence, that is AI,” he said. He also cautioned students against the misuse of the technology. He further noted that under PM-USHA, transparent assistance is extended to promising educational initiatives, enabling institutions to utilize resources meaningfully. Assuring support from the Department of Higher and Technical Education, he encouraged students to make the most of the opportunity and concluded by saying, “Together, we can make our dreams come true.”
The resource persons from Capabl.in, Bengaluru and dignitaries from Department of Higher & Technical Education, Government of Nagaland were later felicitated by Katasinliu Remmei, Associate Professor and Head, Department of Zoology, KSC(A)J.
Founder and CEO of Capabl.in, Mayank Arora, also addressed the participants. Highlighting Capabl.in’s experience in transforming engineering education and upskilling students, he said, “In these three days, you will build some really powerful AI tools which will stay with you throughout your career.” He thanked the Ministry of Education, Government of Nagaland and the college for hosting the programme and expressed enthusiasm to further expand such initiatives in the region.
Delivering the closing remarks, Chairperson Dr. Sedevikho Chase wished all participants an enriching and transformative learning experience. He remarked that the programme was not a mere chance occurrence and credited God’s gracious guidance in making it possible. He concluded by wishing everyone a pleasant and fruitful time of learning.
The inaugural session also featured the screening of a short documentary on the college.
