Governor felicitates achievers of HSLC and HSSLC examinations 2024

KOHIMA — Nagaland Governor, La. Ganesan, on Wednesday felicitated the toppers, rank holders and achievers of HSLC and HSSLC with the Governor’s Awards during a programme held at Raj Bhavan in Kohima.

Acknowledging their hard work, dedication and perseverance, Ganesan congratulated the successful candidates for their outstanding achievements in the recently declared HSLC and HSSLC results. He emphasised the role of teachers, families and friends in the students’ success.

He highlighted the government’s efforts to improve the education system through policies like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which focuses on access, equity, quality, affordability, and accountability. He noted that NEP aims to provide well-trained and qualified teachers to foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities and social and emotional skills among students.

Praising the impact of globalisation on education quality in India, Ganesan expressed happiness at seeing students receiving skill-based education and urged them to strive for excellence not only at the state and national levels but also internationally.

“India is the fastest-growing economy in the world, with numerous opportunities for growth across the country,” he said.

The governor encouraged the students to be curious, flexible and innovative, contributing to nation-building and preparing for diverse national and global challenges, stressing the importance of hard work, skill refinement and creativity in facing the competitive world.

While acknowledging the good facilities and infrastructure available to the students, he urged them to think outside the box and embrace new challenges.

“Never be afraid of your future but be prepared for unexpected circumstances,” he advised.

Extending best wishes to the students and compliments to the teaching and non-teaching faculty for their tireless efforts in shaping future leaders, he quoted Nelson Mandela, who once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”

He further announced that the cash awards for the Governor’s Awards would be enhanced by next year.

During the event, several top achievers shared their experiences and expressed gratitude to God, their schools, parents and teachers. They shared their ambitions and encouraged others to strive for excellence, emphasising that “failure is a stepping stone to success.”

They also expressed honour in receiving the award, highlighting the importance of hard work and urged fellow students to embrace education and make an impact.

The students reflected on sleepless nights studying and wished everyone success in their future endeavours. They also encouraged their peers to aim high with hard work saying that “Success comes to those who work hard, not to those who are lazy.”

Alemyim Isaac Solo, EAC of Mokokchung and UPSC CSE 2023 (AIR 749), advised the students to embrace new challenges and experiences as they progress in life, noting that growth comes from stepping out of familiar environments.

Stating that new experiences bring new perspectives and opportunities for personal development, she urged them to make a positive impact in others’ lives and encouraged them to turn their positive ideas into positive actions.

Recognising the challenges such as academic pressure and family expectations, the official stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy mind. She further encouraged the students to cultivate good habits, seek support when needed and maintain a positive mindset.

Nagaland has highest dropout rates

Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, advisor of School Education and SCERT, acknowledged the efforts and supports involved in achieving success, highlighting that everyone has their own dreams and aspirations.

He emphasised the importance of recognising achievements and cherishing the moment at the Raj Bhavan, noting the centenary of the first Naga matriculate as a milestone in the progress of Naga society.

Pointing out that Nagaland has the highest dropout rates in the country, Dr. Yhome encouraged students to appreciate the good things in life and to value the support from their families and teachers.

Urging students to help their peers who might follow in their footsteps, he expressed hope and confidence in them as future leaders who would impact the nation and the world.

Asano Sekhose, chairperson of Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE), apprised that over the years, 5 Governor’s Awards have been instituted in categories.

According to her, there are Governor’s Awards for the toppers in HSLC and 3 toppers in HSSLC Examinations (Arts, Commerce and Science), which was instituted in 2009. She stated that awards were given in 2010 with cash award of INR 25,000 and a certificate.

Besides, she stated that  MILs/ Skill Subject Awards are given to the subject toppers in languages, skill and vocational subjects both in Class X and XII with a cash award of INR 5,000 each; 3 Government School Students Awards to the best 3 students in HSLC exam and best 3 students in Arts, Science and Commerce in HSSLC Examination with INR 25,000 for 1st position, INR 15,000 for 2nd position and INR 10,000 for 3rd position; 4 Governor’s Award for the eastern Nagaland districts to 3 best students in HSLC and HSSLC (3 streams) with INR 25,000 for 1st position, INR 15,000 for 2nd position and INR 10,000 for 3rd position; 5 Governor’s Excellence Award in Science Study to the best 6 students (3 in Physics, Chemistry and Biology) and 3 in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics with INR INR 1,00,000 for the 1st position, INR 50,000 for 2nd and INR 25,000 for 3rd positions respectively.

Sekhose informed that 62 students were awarded with Governor’s Awards in various categories this year.