Use science for good of humanity, says Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome

KOHMA – Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, advisor for school education and SCERT, said on Thursday that in the digital world, artificial intelligence is reshaping many people’s customs and habits and noted that every generation brings new challenges.

Yhome, who was addressing the state level Science, Mathematics, and Environment exhibition 2023 as the special guest at Ura Academy Hall, Kohima, said that science and technology should be used for the benefit of humanity.

According to him, in today’s world, people use science and technology to simplify everyday life and for the good of humanity; however, he also admitted that technology is sometimes used for destructive purposes too.

Encouraging the young participants to create a strong narrative to lead society, he stressed the need for leaders to demonstrate that they (the students) can innovate like young scientists around the world.

In his speech, Yhome also asserted that Naga society has come a long way, from their forefathers surviving on agriculture with little rest and comfort, to the present day with a spirit of creativity, innovation, and thinking beyond.

Wonthungo Tsopoe, director of school education, pointed out in his speech that the New Education Policy (NEP) is focusing on student-centric learning, and stressed on the need to give more space for students.

In this regard, Tsopoe emphasised the need for more interaction between teachers and students to enable better learning, rather than giving too much importance to merit alone. He underscored the need to teach and train children to be useful citizens who are independent and noted that education is the only way to change society.

Later, Onongoto Solehol, chief mentor at the Innovation Hub and Space Education Centre, Nagaland Science Centre, gave a talk on the theme “Technology and Toys” and Yhome, along with the organisers and officials, toured the exhibition.

Following the exhibition, it was revealed that schools, students, and teachers were chosen for participation in the national-level Rashtriya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshani (RBVP) exhibition 2023 under various sub-themes, and the same would be submitted to NCERT for consideration.

Under the theme of ‘transport and innovation’, Akokla Jamir (class 10) of Fernwood School was selected, with teacher guide Joyti Gurung; for ‘advancement in information and communication technology’, Vekulü (class 10) of GHS Chandmari was picked, with teacher guide Mhasiekholie Paul Belho; Toli Kent (class 12) of Mezhür HSS will represent ‘historical development with current Innovation’, with teacher guide Lucy.

Under the ‘eco-friendly materials’ theme, Thütsüno (class 12) of Rüzhükhrie GHSS was chosen with teacher guide Edward Aley; Menolhubi (class 11) of GHSS Jotsoma was also selected, with teacher guide Rokovituo Nagi; Berimong (class 10) of TM GHSS will also participate under the same theme with teacher guide Mhasikholie Sachü.

For ‘health and cleanliness, Khonzani N. Odyuo (class 12) of Model HSS was selected with teacher guide Amul Boro; Berimong (class 10) of TM GHSS will also participate under this theme with teacher guide Mhasikholie Sachü; Thejaseno Gwirie (class 9) of Baptist High, Kohima, was chosen as well, with teacher guide Visuto.

In the ‘environmental concerns category’, Nginnyu Angha (class 9) of Dr. N Kire GHSS was picked with teacher guide Kelhouputuo Rutsa; Jentina Yaomei (class 10) of Little Flower HSS was selected, along with teacher guide Surjit Telem; Lulu Nienu (class 10) of Ministers’ Hill Baptist HSS will also represent this theme, guided by Thejasenuo Chase.

The event was organised by the Directorate of School Education in collaboration with the District Education Office, Kohima. The programme was led by T Mhonlumi Ezung. The welcome address was delivered by Patricia Vizo, Sr SDEO of Kohima, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Gloria Ezung, assistant director of school education.