 Participants engage in hands-on bamboo craft training during the SSU Skill Development Workshop at Sungratsu. SSU workshop equips students with traditional craft and modern organic farming techniques MOKOKCHUNG, JUNE 26 (MExN): The Sungratsu Students Union (SSU) organised a two-day skill development workshop from June 24 to 25 under the theme “Self-Reliance,” aimed at empowering the Arju Centre, Sungratsu. The workshop sought to blend traditional cultural knowledge with modern organic farming techniques, equipping students with practical skills for sustainable living and income generation. On the first day, held at Senden Salang, Sungratsu, students received hands-on training in bamboo craftsmanship, learning to make items such as baskets, mats, indigenous plates, and machete handles. Sessions also included value addition techniques like pickle-making from leftover products. Alongside the practical training, theory classes delved into folklore, tradition, and the cultural heritage nurtured through the Arju (boys' dormitory) and Tsuki (girls' dormitory) systems.  Master trainers emphasised that bamboo crafts are not just functional tools but represent the stories, customs, and identity of the community. SSU President Tekameren Aier said the crafts reflect the village’s rich heritage and could serve as viable livelihood options when preserved and passed on. Senior student leader Lanulemba Longchar said the broader objective was to instil cultural pride and self-reliance. “This isn’t just about skills,” he said. “It’s about ensuring our traditions live on and helping students realise they can create value from what’s already around them.”  On the second day, participants visited Yimchalu, a tourist farm village, where they observed organic green tea processing and engaged in agricultural and allied activities. These sessions were led by experts from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Yimsemyong, Mokokchung, and focused on the practical aspects of organic farming, kitchen gardening, and local raw material utilisation for marketable products. Lanulemba underscored the need for resource awareness, stating, “The goal is to raise individuals who are not liabilities but contributors to society.” Day one trainers included K Zulu Lemtur, Nokenwapang Ozukum, Imolila, Mejongsangla, Alisoa Aier, Shilutemsu Walling, Rediwapang, De Temjensangla Pongener, Chubayondang Walling, and Takawati Walling.Day two resource persons were C Wati Walling, Village Council Chairman of Yimchalu, and Dr Sarenti from KVK Yimsemyong, along with his team. Blending heritage with modern farming | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
