A significant step towards educational advancement and community development was taken today in Kiusam with the official Land Cutting Ceremony for St. John School. The event, held on April 6, 2026, was graced by dignitaries and community leaders, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Tikhir area.

Shri Teisovilie Rupreo, North East Contractor, officiated the program, emphasizing the opportunity to contribute to the local community’s well-being. “May God’s blessing be upon this ground today and years to come, as the ground itself bears witness to the faith, sacrifice, and determination of an entire community. He said, let on this ground be a stepping forward into a future defined by education, excellence, and the love of God,” Rupreo stated during the ribbon-cutting.

Rev. Fr. Philip Magh, Parish Priest and Principal of Loyola Hr. Sec. School, Kiphire, hailed the day as a “red-letter day” for St. John School. He extended heartfelt appreciation from the Bishop and the Diocese of Kohima to North East Construction for their substantial contribution in leveling the ground. “Your contribution is our vision, resources, prayers, and labor toward making this institution a reality,” Fr. Magh added, acknowledging the collective effort behind the project. He also applauded Shri Thepfusatuo Rio and Shri Teisovilie Rupreo for their leadership.

Mr. L.Y. Tokim, TGBA President, representing public leaders, underscored the profound impact of humanitarian service. “You may be a millionaire, wealthy in assets, rich in knowledge and wisdom, but a help rendered to mankind is the greatest gift,” he remarked. He lauded the Catholic Church for its dedicated service and recognized Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Centre In-charge, for his hard work, and Rev. Fr. Philip for his collaborative spirit with NEC. Tokim highlighted that this contribution would be remembered for generations in the Tikhir area. The ceremony included a Prayer of Blessing led by Rev. Fr. Kokto Kurien, Director, NCYM – Kohima, Nagaland, who invoked divine guidance and protection for the project. Earlier, Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu welcomed everyone, setting a tone of unity and gratitude. He expressed optimism for the school’s future, acknowledging NEC’s contribution as a sacred milestone for faith, education, and community in the Kiusam Area. Mrs. Catherine competently compered the program, fostering a spirit of oneness and grace throughout the proceedings.