On International Play Day, NHAK gets play courtyard

KOHIMA — Coinciding with International Play Day, a play courtyard at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK), was officially inaugurated by Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso, MLA, on Tuesday.

The play courtyard next to the pediatric ward at Naga Hospital was developed by Kohima Smart City Development Limited (KSCDL) with technical support from World Resources Institute, India (WRI India) under the Nurturing Neighborhoods Challenge (NNC) of Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

The project, led by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, aims to create vibrant and supportive spaces for communities, particularly for children and families.

Speaking on the occasion, Rhütso appreciated the efforts of NHAK and KSCDL and others for their roles in making this project into a reality.

Emphasising the significance of creating facilities for common use, he said such projects mark a proud moment for the city, while also highlighting that play is a crucial method for brain development as it fosters long-lasting memories and learning.

He said that allowing children to play in such establishments instills a sense of community, teaching them the concepts of sharing and cooperation. He also noted that when children play and encounter difficulties, they develop innovative thoughts, which contributes to their overall growth.

Rhütso reiterated the importance of play in cognitive development and overall well-being, encompassing social, physical, and emotional health. He highlighted that children learn cooperation, turn-taking, and giving through such play facilities, which in turn enhances their confidence and social circles.

He further said that a strong a bond develops between children and their parents when they engage in play within such facilities. Hoping for more such developments for children in the future, he assured to identify additional locations for similar projects and proposed them for the Smart City to take up.

Theja Tsükrü, senior architect at KSCDL, highlighted NCC, which aims to make urban areas child-friendly by addressing the needs of children and caregivers.

The initiative promotes safe, accessible, and inclusive neighborhoods, fostering environments for children to thrive and develop a sense of community, he said, recalling that Kohima Smart City was among the top 10 winners in India for this challenge in January 2022.

Emphasising that the park will foster community, promote health and provide a safe space for children, he apprised about plans to build more parks to ensure access to green areas for all citizens, aligning with their vision of a sustainable and livable city.

He also noted the alignment with International Play Day, and hoped that the courtyard would be a safe and inviting space for restorative activities.

Sudipto Barua, programme associate at WRI India, outlined the importance of creating child-friendly spaces and remarked that early childhood is crucial for cognitive development.

He also explained about the transformation of spaces at NHAK, improving waiting areas and immunisation centres for caregivers and children and plans to scale up interventions in other health centres.

Dr. Sentimeren Aonok, managing director of NHAK, reflected on the journey leading to the recognition of the importance of play in child development. He highlighted the origins of the global movement in 2014, sparked by a psychology professor from Boston University.

Thungchibemo N  Ezung, vice curator of Kohima Hub, Global Shapers Community, highlighted the introduction of a library at the courtyard in collaboration with 3 Shelf Library and Smart City Kohima. He said the initiative aims to transform public spaces into knowledge hubs, making education accessible to all.

Dr. Khriemenuo Koza and Dr. Prarthana Das also underscored the importance of outdoor play for young children. On the occasion, a storytelling session was conducted by KSCDL.

During the event, awards were presented to the winners of the painting competition held for nursing students at NHAK, in observance of World Environment Day.