The Government Polytechnic Doyang, Wokha (GPDW) is making waves in Nagaland. It is the first technical institute in Wokha district. The polytechnic opened its doors on May 27, 2022. It offers a three-year diploma in Architecture Assistantship. This institute is a big step for students who want to learn technical skills. It is located near the scenic Doyang River. The polytechnic aims to provide quality education and create job opportunities for the youth of Nagaland.
A Long-Awaited Dream Comes True
The journey to establish Government Polytechnic Doyang was not easy. The idea began in 2008. The foundation stone was laid in 2011. However, it took over a decade for the institute to start functioning. The polytechnic was officially set up in March 2021. It operates under the Department of Higher and Technical Education, Nagaland. It is affiliated with the State Council for Technical Education (SCTE), Nagaland. The inauguration on May 27, 2022, was a historic moment. It was led by Minister for Higher Education and Tribal Affairs, Temjen Imna Along, and Advisor for Technical Education and Election, Medo Yhokha. Advisor for Horticulture and Border Affairs, Mhathung Yanthan, also attended the event.
The delay in starting the polytechnic was due to several challenges. Land ownership issues were a major problem. Minister Along highlighted that such issues often slow down development projects in Nagaland. He urged the local community to support the institute. He also stressed the need for a girls’ hostel to make the campus more accessible. The polytechnic is located in Doyang, about 38 kilometers from Wokha town. Its scenic location near the Doyang River makes it an attractive place for students.
Academic Programs and Admission
The Government Polytechnic Doyang offers a three-year diploma in Architecture Assistantship. This course started in July 2022. It has an intake of only 15 students per year. This small number ensures focused teaching. Candidates who have passed or appeared for the HSLC or HSSLC exams in 2022 were eligible to apply. They had to take the Diploma Entrance Examination to secure a seat. The principal, Er. Julia Achumi, announced this during the inauguration. She welcomed students from all districts of Nagaland to join the institute.
The polytechnic plans to add more courses in the future. Advisor Mhathung Yanthan appealed to the department to include new and relevant courses. This would create more opportunities for students. The institute aims to become a vibrant center for technical education in Nagaland. The focus is on practical skills that can lead to jobs. Architecture Assistantship is a job-oriented course. It prepares students for careers in construction, design, and urban planning. Minister Along encouraged youths to pursue this field. He said there are many opportunities beyond government jobs.
Faculty and Infrastructure
The polytechnic has a dedicated team of faculty members. Ar. Neiphre Miachieo is a lecturer in Architecture Assistantship. He joined on January 11, 2023, and holds a B.Arch degree. Ar. Katila Jamir, another lecturer, has an M.Tech in Urban Planning. She joined on October 6, 2023. Ar. Visanino Kenna-o, also a lecturer, holds a Master’s in Urban and Rural Planning. She joined on the same date. I. Tainjungla Ozukum teaches English. She has an M.A. in English, a B.Ed, and an LL.B degree. She is also UGC-NET qualified. These faculty members bring expertise to the institute. They ensure students receive quality education.
The infrastructure of the polytechnic is still developing. The government is working to improve facilities. Minister Along emphasized the need for a girls’ hostel. This would make the institute more accessible to female students. The campus is located in a beautiful area near the Doyang River. This makes it an appealing place to study. However, being a new institute, it faces challenges. Advisor Yanthan urged the community to contribute to its growth. He said the polytechnic could become a leading institution with everyone’s support.
Community and Environmental Initiatives
The Government Polytechnic Doyang is not just about academics. It is also active in community and environmental activities. On August 7, 2024, the institute organized a seminar and painting event. This was part of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan initiative. The event focused on water conservation. Ar. Katila Jamir spoke about the importance of saving water. Students and faculty participated in the Jal Doot campaign. They became “Water Messengers” to promote sustainable water practices in the community. This shows the institute’s commitment to social causes.
The polytechnic also celebrated National Voters’ Day on January 25, 2023. The event took place in the conference hall. It aimed to raise awareness about the importance of voting. On March 13, 2023, the institute held a one-day event called “Create: A Beginning of Possibilities.” It included five competitions: model making, videography, photography, quiz, and crossword. These activities encourage creativity and teamwork among students. The polytechnic is becoming a hub for both learning and community engagement.
Impact on Wokha District
The Government Polytechnic Doyang is a game-changer for Wokha district. Wokha is known as the “land of plenty” due to its rich resources. The polytechnic adds to this reputation. It is the only technical institute in the district. It provides local students with access to technical education. Before this, students had to travel to other districts or states for such courses. Now, they can study closer to home. The institute also attracts students from other parts of Nagaland. This brings diversity to the campus.
The polytechnic is located near the Doyang Hydro Project. This is a major tourist attraction in Wokha. The area is known for its natural beauty. It is also famous for the Amur Falcon migration. Every year, thousands of these birds visit the Doyang Reservoir. The polytechnic’s location adds to its appeal. Students can study in a peaceful and scenic environment. The institute also promotes tourism in the area. It encourages visitors to explore Wokha’s natural and cultural attractions.
Future Prospects
The Government Polytechnic Doyang has a bright future. It is still a young institute, but it has big plans. The government is committed to its growth. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has been praised for his efforts. He played a key role in setting up the polytechnic. The institute is part of a larger plan to improve technical education in Nagaland. There are nine government polytechnics in the state. They offer various diploma programs and short-term skill training. The Doyang polytechnic is a vital part of this network.
The institute aims to expand its courses. This will give students more options. It also plans to improve its facilities. A girls’ hostel is a top priority. This will make the campus safer and more inclusive. The polytechnic wants to become a center of excellence. It aims to produce skilled professionals who can contribute to Nagaland’s development. The faculty is dedicated to this goal. They focus on both teaching and mentoring students.
Community Support and Challenges
The success of the polytechnic depends on community support. The people of Wokha have welcomed the institute. However, there are challenges. Land disputes have delayed projects in the past. Minister Along urged the community to resolve such issues. He said they hinder development. The Pangti Village Council requested a name change to “Government Polytechnic Pangti.” This request is under review. It shows the community’s desire to feel connected to the institute.
The polytechnic also faces the challenge of being a new institution. It needs time to establish itself. The small intake of 15 students limits its reach. However, this allows for personalized attention. The institute is working to overcome these challenges. It is building a strong foundation for the future.
Conclusion
The Government Polytechnic Doyang, Wokha, is a beacon of hope for Nagaland’s youth. It offers quality technical education in a beautiful setting. The institute has overcome many challenges to start functioning. It is now shaping the future of its students. With community support and government backing, it has the potential to become a leading institution. The polytechnic is not just about academics. It is also about building a better future for Wokha and Nagaland. As it grows, it will continue to inspire and empower the next generation.