LBC sets precedence for Govt-Church partnership to generate sustainable ecosystem and economy

November 22, 2022 38 Views No Comment

Vocational Course on Agri & Allied Sector launched at Living Bible College

Dimapur, November 22 (MExN): Playing its part in encouraging careers in sustainable economic activities for the youth of Nagaland, the Living Bible College (LBC) Ayinato, Vihokhu launched a vocational course on Agri & Allied sector on November 21.

Nagaland Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC), Y Kikheto Sema graced the inaugural programme as special guest. According to a press release, the APC applauded the college for taking the initiative to incorporate the vocational aspect of sustainability. He challenged the students and church leaders to integrate the holistic approach of ‘Work and Eat’ both within the Church and theological education.

The APC pointed out that the church and theological institutions have “perhaps failed to emphasize the sustainability and socio-economic aspect which is biblical in its own right.” He said, “The soil and land and environment is crying out for help,” for humans to be responsible, and as such encouraged churches, across denominations, and government to come together to create a more sustainable ecosystem, economy, and climate condition.

Kikheto stated that the Church, which is the most important institution in the State, should focus on social-economic, sustainability, ecosystem, environment, clean elections, and respect and obey the authorities, etc., in their preaching and teachings for a better future.

He admitted that State Government officials have also failed to deliver the materials as expected by the common people.

“We are planning to lease out our department farms to the FPOs, FPCs, entrepreneurs, Churches etc to take up farming activities in a sustainable manner. State Government department cannot do the farming or business but can provide logistic support,” he added.

Meanwhile, Prof Akali Sema, NU: SASRD, gave the keynote address introducing the vocational course. She emphasized that the National Educational Policy is moving towards vocational-oriented program—‘Multiple Entry, Multiple Exit.’ She also stressed on the importance of having the basic skills of theory and practice related to agriculture and horticulture such as farming practices, management of pest and disease, postharvest management and marketing skills.

Stating that the LBC is the first among Bible Colleges in Nagaland to offer this vocational course in collaboration with NU SASRD, she added that the course is designed in such way that it will not affect the regular classes of the institution.

SASARD, NU helped in designing the course curriculum and syllabus and the first lecture was delivered by Dr Gracely Yeptho from the Department of Horticulture, SASARD, NU. The programme was chaired by Avikato Sumi, Academic Dean, LBC; welcome address was delivered by Khekiho Shohe, member, Managing Board, LBC; prayer of dedication by Rev Phuhoto Chishi, Pastor, NCRC Sumi Thilixu; Special song by LBC Choir; vote of thanks was pronounced by Kiyekhe Kiba, Principal, LBC; and closing prayer was led by Chumhori Sangtam, lecturer, LBC.

Source: https://morungexpress.com/lbc-sets-precedence-for-govt-church-partnership-to-generate-sustainable-ecosystem-and-economy