The Sochum (Morung as derived from Chang Naga tribe dialect) or the traditional youth dormitory was introduced to assist the students in their studies through reformation of traditional institution that was vital and practiced in the villages amongst eastern tribes of Nagaland. In addition to academics, the Sochum tries to incorporate that aspect of education which is not within the scope of a general modern school curriculum. It also oversees the retention and dropout cases of students.
In the Sochum, students gather in the evenings to study as well as to learn life skills, culture and traditions. They not only learn from books but are trained on life-skills through hands-on orientation on agriculture, horticulture, crafts, gender awareness, and imbibing world-view through oral traditions on culture, social institutions, customs and beliefs.
Achievements Report during 2019-20:
The Sochum project is implemented by Eleuthorous Christian Society (ECS), a reputed NGO from the eastern district of Tuensang consequent to execution of an MOU between the State Government and NGO. On demand by the people the Sochum project has been extended to 21 village level units involving the communities for implementation of the unit projects.596 students were enrolled through Sochum project initiative.
Activities carried out in Sochum
Morung/Sochum Night:
Morung nights are organized half-yearly in the Sochum to showcase talents and progress of the children. Different competitions around culture, literary, speeches and songs feature in these events. Important days like Environment day, Swachh Bharat, World AIDS Day, Teachers day, Statehood day, Republic day, Independence days are also observed in the Sochum.
Weekly/monthly test:
Weekly tests and monthly evaluation are conducted by the wardens in every Sochum to monitor progress of the students.
Training and exposure for wardens:
One day training and orientation program for all the Sochum wardens was conducted at Tuensang town on 17th June 2019 to reorient the wardens on the activities of Sochum, monitoring of the Sochum and computer lessons. Another, training cum educational exposure tour was organized for wardens to Guwahati from 18th -22nd June 2019.
Cultural Activities and Festivals
Cultural events at the Sochum are organized at least once in a year. During the cultural festival events, children are dressed in traditional attires with parents and village elders to witness the program.
