Women Empowerment

Our mission is to serve the rural and underprivileged areas of Northeast India, particularly the state of Nagaland, leading towards the overall development and progress of Naga society. Our motto “Progress through Perseverance” upholds our mission.

Ongoing Activities

Solidarity Student Exchange Programme [SSEP]

The Solidarity Student Exchange Programme is a programme co-designed by Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation and Indian National Fellowship Centre, Mumbai and was launched in September 2017 . The purpose of SSEP was to choose young Naga women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional academic aptitude and knowledge of Naga culture and are eager to learn about the diversity of the nation making them fit to represent the Nagas as ambassadors in cultural exchange with Mainland India.

The pilot project of SSEP was an exchange program between female students of Kohima College, Nagaland with Sathaye College, Mumbai University. With the support of the Principal and Women’s Cell Kohima College, Kohima, a stringent selection process including an interview with the applicants was conducted . Eight students were selected for the programme. Owing to the success of the pilot project of SSEP in 2017, Dr. K & T and INFC jointly decided to expand the programme to include exchange between female students of colleges of Nagaland with colleges not only in Maharashtra, but also in the states of Gujarat, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.

The primary objective of SSEP is to empower women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds from Nagaland and the other states, namely Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh, who demonstrate exceptional academic aptitude and knowledge of their respective culture(s)and who are eager to learn about the diversity of the nation, by participating in this cultural exchange program. The one week programme involves cross cultural activities, field visits, career guidance, personality development, soft skills workshops etc.

Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation and the Indian National Fellowship Centre signed a memorandum of understanding on 1st May 2018 to take full responsibility of organising the SSEP in the partner state. This programme is conducted on an annual basis. The two organisations seek to reach out to women in as many colleges as possible in the respective states.

SSEP 2017 students from Kohima College, Kohima with Trustees of Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation Theyiesinuo Keditsu and Keduovinuo Keditsu

SSEP Students 2017: L>R Ngauyile, Temjennaro, Neikehenuo, Longtila, Thejaphrenuo, Adonu Khamo, Rubica Kiho, Thotsievi.

SSEP 2018 students from Baptist College, Kohima with Mr. N. Delhu Khate, Principal Baptist College, Mr Chubutse Naro, Staff I/C Baptist College, and Mrs. Theyiesinuo Keditsu, Trustee, Dr K & T Keditsu Foundation

SSEP Students 2018: L>R Namching, Myinthunglo, Neikhonuo, Chiam S, Nyemen, Limeka, Yantalia Y, Abigail, display their respective Naga tribe traditional attire during cultural program at Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Mumbai.

SSEP 2019 students from Guru Nanak Khalsa College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Mumbai, welcomed at Dimapur airport: L>R (Back row) Diana F, Komal V, Uttara N, Namching (Baptist College), Myinthunglo (Baptist College), Meghna M, Prof. Padmaja Kulkarni (Chaperone); L>R (Front row) Vidula P, Maithili R, Komal T, Sanjana W.

SSEP 2019 Valedictory Function cum Dinner held on 28th February 2019 at the Eastgate Hotel, Kohima. Students of Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Mumbai with chaperoning teacher, students of Baptist College, Kohima, Staff of Baptist College, Kohima and Zubza Campus, with Principal Baptist College, Trustees and staff of Dr K & T Keditsu Foundation.

"Uplift Women Street Vendors" Project {An EA Project}

In partnership with Entrepreneurs Associates (EA) Nagaland in their project “Uplift Women Street Vendors” launched on 13th October 2017. Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation provides resource persons to deliver lectures on ‘Women’s Health’ covering the following topics: urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections, genital hygiene, vaginal discharge, warning signs and health seeking behaviour, and women related cancers like breast and cervical cancer. Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation will also provide all women with free cervical cancer screening, free medicines pertaining to cervical infections, and free treatment of any diseases identified during the screening process including cancer. Our target is to screen more than 100 women per session. This is an ongoing project with the aim to reach out to all districts in Nagaland

Solidarity Student Exchange Programme [SSEP] 2017

Health camp in 7 districts, namely Kohima, Dimapur, Wokha, Peren, Mon, Mokokchung and Phek, motivated by Indian National Fellowship Centre, Mumbai, conducted in collaboration with Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, Nagaland, Rotary Club Bombay North, Friends of Nagaland, Cancer patients Aids Association of India, and Indian Academy of Echocardiography.

Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation organized the health camp at District Hospital, Phek with a team of 17 members (10 doctors and 7 supportive personals: 175 patients registered for treatment, 9 major surgeries (6 laparoscopic appendectomy, 1 total abdominal hysterectomy, 1 myomectomy, 1 laparoscopic cholecystectomy), 7 laparoscopic ligations (permanent family planning), 4 copper T insertions, Cervical cancer screening: 18 pap smears, 30 ultrasound scans, 30 tooth extractions.

The SSEP to Mumbai was a great opportunity for me to go out of my home. Mumbai is one of the biggest cities in India, a city that never sleeps, completely different from Nagaland. I learned a lot about Maharashtra and their rich culture. Getting an opportunity to see the world outside Nagaland has expanded my knowledge, which I will carry throughout my life.

Being selected for the SSEP has been one of the best and most wonderful experiences of my life! Everything was new for me. My first journey on a plane was amazing and adventurous. City life was completely different: the way people manage their time and utilize available resources must be the reason behind their success. Amongst the various activities during this nine-day program,...

Visiting Mumbai city was one of the best experiences of my life. The Solidarity Students Exchange Programme has opened my eyes; it taught me that living in my comfort zone will not help me learn anything even if I have all the required qualifications. We need to go out and see, learn the good things and practice them...

I never thought I would be selected for the Solidarity Students Exchange Program to Mumbai, but good things come unexpectedly and I cannot express how grateful I am to the organizers for this opportunity. This was my first time outside Nagaland. Through my interaction with the students of Sathaye College. Mumbai, and their families, I have seen the joy of living!

Accompanied by students of Sathaye College, we visited different places like the Gateway of India, Elephanta caves, Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower and a local bakery. I was overwhelmed by how hard working, friendly and kind the people in Mumbai were. The SSEP has taught me about life, people, culture, and I will carry the experience with me throughout my life.

The SSEP was a wonderful experience that allowed me to make friends with strangers completely different from Naga society and culture. What really touched me was a seminar on “Building Self Confidence” by Professor Shannon and his words “we are not born with confidence. It is something that anyone can develop. Confidence is something we create within ourselves by believing in who we are”.

To be selected for the Solidarity Students Exchange Program to Sathaye College Mumbai has been the biggest achievement for me as a student so far. It was my first experience going outside Nagaland, not only travelling by flight, but also being independent and responsible for oneself throughout the journey. During this brief period, I developed many positive qualities...

I couldn’t believe it when I got selected to go to Mumbai; it was a dream come true. I was overwhelmed to be greeted so warmly at the airport by teachers and students of Sathaye College, Mumbai. I learned that Mumbai city is alive and there is so much love in it. I saw monuments and landmarks that I had only read about in textbooks like ‘David Sassoon Library’ established in 1847...

Solidarity Student Exchange Programme [SSEP] 2018

From the 1st to 9th of September 2018, eight girls from Baptist College, Kohima were hosted by Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Mumbai. The students attended classes and workshops covering a wide variety of topics including personality development, design thinking, skill based training, tree plantation, medical camps etc, aimed to develop entrepreneurial skills and provide career guidance. They participated in cultural exchange activities displaying the rich cultural heritage of the respective states. They also visited small scale and cottage industries, local homes and important heritage sites of Mumbai city.

The one-week program in Mumbai was a dream come true. Guru Nanak Khalsa College hosted us. The professors/lecturers and student volunteers accommodated us in such a way that I have no words to express my gratitude. I noticed differences in the educational system of Nagaland and Maharashtra. The student-teacher relation is very different; students at Khalsa College treat their teachers like parents and also a friend, which is not the case in Nagaland...

My experience on SSEP to Mumbai was the best week of my life. Every thing I saw and experienced has changed me. I would like to thank Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation without whom there will be no such program. I am really indebted to them for their generosity, and for the golden opportunity for me to learn at free of cost. This program gave me courage and a feeling of independence...

Through this programme, I learned about the Maharashtra culture, tradition and way of living. We attended lectures, visited the small scale industries, the Lijjat Patnika company, and visited heritage buildings. We interacted with the Rotaract club; their service to society inspired me. My experience in Mumbai was not just having fun but a true learning process. This programme has motivated me to work harder, to manage my time and to be more efficient...

This Solitary Students Exchange Program organized by Dr. K&T Keditsu Foundation has been a great learning experience for me, and also my fellow students. It gave us a platform to improve ourselves and also promote our culture to other regions. I will cherish what this program has given to me and ever remain grateful to everyone related to this program.

This programme has been a journey of self-discovery and personal growth filled with unforgettable memories. I realized I can do so much more than I ever thought was possible. Seeing true diversity, lifestyles, distinctive cultures, learning new language, meeting new talented people while helping them and imparting knowledge about my home, my people and my culture, this program has been a life changing experience...

This one-week journey has transformed my thinking and lifestyle. It has given me a new chapter in my life. I am proud to say that I am more determined and a strong and new person now. Through the new relations that I have made I learnt that good relationships are made through hearts but not by blood. This journey to Mumbai has helped me find new friends, lessons and experience...

The Solidarity Students Exchange Programme has made me realize that we learn more by observing. It was my first time outside Nagaland and with this exposure I look at the world in a broader sense. My experience in this program has given me the desire to seek more knowledge and to spread the message to preserve our rich tradition. I am grateful for the opportunity. It has encouraged me to never stop learning.

The most inspiring activity was my visit to the Lijjat Papad women institution, a self-employment institution for women. I learned about the strength of women. Since I am from a commerce background, their successful stories taught me that in business everyone starts from a humble beginning. This cultural exchange program highlights the unity between two different states, and the objective of promoting effective learning and adaptation towards having a better relationship.“

Solidarity Student Exchange Programme [SSEP] 2019

Eight girls from Guru Nanak Khalsa College of Arts, Science & Commerce, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Maharashtra participated in the Solidarity Students’ Exchange Programme with the Baptist College, Kohima, Nagaland from the 22nd to 28th of February 2019. Eight students accompanied by a chaperone from Mumbai interacted with students of Baptist College Kohima and Zubza campus, and participated in cultural exchange activities displaying the rich cultural heritage of the respective states. They had the opportunity to visit historical places of interest like the WWII War cemetery, several villages in and around Kohima, visited local homes, interacted with the local people and learned the Naga way of life. They attended interactive sessions covering a wide variety of topics including “Naga culture today” by Mr. Theja Meru (CEO Dreamcorp) at the Heritage, “Naga culinary traditions” with Mr. Changsu (Naga Chef) at Chingtsuong Restaurant, and “An Evening of Conversations with Naga Women Professionals”: Sesino Yhoshu (Independent filmmaker/producer), Shiroi Lily Shaiza (Financial consultant), Ketholeno Kense Vihienuo (Model/ Entrepreneur), Khyochano Ngully (Musician/ Mentor), and Theyiesinuo Keditsu (Writer/ Educator). The students had the privilege of witnessing the Sekrenyi festival celebrations at Touphema village, and tasted the local rice beer and even pork. They also enjoyed a day hike to Pulebadze. SSEP 2019 was organised in partnership with the Eastgate Hotel, Kohima and Happy Fleet tourist services.

My solidarity cultural exchange programme trip to Nagaland, through my college, Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Mumbai, Maharashtra organised by the Dr. K & T Keditsu foundation,Kohima and the Indian National Fellowship Centre, Mumbai impacted my life more than anything has ever has before. This programme exceeded every expectations I had. It was especially rewarding as it allowed a broad range of brotherhood between two states and extreme unity amongst ourselves towards our country. I learnt new traditions by visiting the villages, and also witness the panoramic view of nature...

The Student’s Exchange Program at Kohima, Nagaland has been a truly enriching experience and expanded my knowledge and network from an academic perspective. I couldn’t be more grateful to my college as well as K & T Keditsu Foundation and Indian national fellowship center Mumbai for this unique opportunity to learn in such a stimulating environment. What I personally loved the most were the interaction sessions with Mr. Theja Meru, Mr. Changsu, our Naga friends of Baptist College, and the Naga Women Professionals. Nagaland is a Nature rich great place and Nagas are so pure, real and innocent as nature.

We have 29 states and 7 union territories. Each states has its own culture, tradition, norms etc. Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, and the Indian National Fellowship Centre ,Mumbai gave me an opportunity to exchange my maharashtrian culture with the people of Nagaland, which had made an impact on my life. I have learned about the Naga culture, tribes, history, and the people. The interactive sessions with "Naga Women Professionals " has influenced me to become an independent , strong and influential women. I have made unforgettable memories with the people of Nagaland...

Responding to the call of the Governor of Nagaland, P. B. Acharya, Indian National Fellowship Centre (INFC) and Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation has taken up the task to arrange the cultural exchange program between students of North East State (Nagaland) & Mumbai. Through my college, Guru Nanak Khalsa College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, I got the opportunity to visit Nagaland for the cultural exchange programme. Being part of this program taught me how to live and know the culture of the people I have never met before. This experience changed my life completely...

I have been to Nagaland (Kohima) for 8 days & it was my first experience travelling by flight. Nagaland is a wonderful place surrounded with kind hearted people on one side and a beautiful forest, mountain hills on the other. We visited many villages, enjoyed the Sekrenyi festival and interacted with local Naga people: the Naga professional women's, Mr. Theja Meru, Naga Chef Changsu, who inspired me. We had delicious and scrumptious meals every day. SSEP brings the east & west part of India together & it should be maintained for lifelong...

The cultural exchange programme through my college, Guru Nanak Khalsa College Mumbai, Maharashtra organised by the Dr. K & T Keditsu foundation Kohima and the National Fellowship Centre, Maharashtra changed my life and gave me a turning point. This solidarity program was a great chance to discover myself. It taught me many things that will help me for my future as well as my education. The loving people interactions, and way of living taught me life lessons. My overall experience in Nagaland has taught me to love and to value the richness of hearts of the people...

This opportunity and learning experience has had a great impact on me, thanks to my college Guru Nanak Khalsa college, Dr. K & T Keditsu foundation and many other people. Through this cultural exchange program I came to know about the Naga people and their culture such as folk dance, folk music, dressing styles, food habits etc. The nature surrounding us was so mesmerising and gave me peacefulness of mind. Through this program I learned that Naga people are kind hearted, polite, and friendly. It was one of the best experiences of my life and has helped me develop my thinking process...

Respected Trustees of Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, Principal, teachers and students of Baptist College and Indian National Fellowship Center, I cannot thank you enough for giving us the opportunity to learn about Nagaland and experience it's culture so closely. The eight days spent in your state will always be cherished. I am a completely different person now. My confidence and self esteem have reached a level from where it cannot be pulled down. I have always been an introvert and this program has worked wonders for me in helping me make friends and putting myself out there...

First of all, I'd like to thank the organisers for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this Solidary Students Exchange Program, hosted by Sophia's College Mumbai. My first flight experience was indeed very beautiful. I personally made some wonderful friendships which I believe would be for a lifetime. Visits to various places such as the prestigious TIFR (Tata Institute Of Fundamental Research), Keshav Shristi, Nehru Planetarium, various research activities within the college itself etc., have widened my vision to aim higher to a whole new level. I was amazed by how our hosts acknowledged our culture and religion and showed immense interest to know more...

This program has widened my horizon. It has made me believe that financial constraint should not be an excuse; it should never limit our our wings to fly in pursuit of success. I have learned that hard work with a vision can put us in a place where even our minds have not wandered. The experiences I encountered in the program has made me bolder than before. It has build up my self-confidence. The visit to Mumbai has also made me appreciate my roots more than ever. It has broken the cultural barrier that lies between mainland India and Northeast India. Hence, the program has allowed me to embrace the cultural diversity and celebrate the diversity of India.

I am humbled and honoured for this opportunity, thanks to Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation! This program was one of the most exciting and eye opening experiences for me. It opened my shell and broadened my concept of education and life. One thing I observed was the enthusiasm and seriousness of the students in Sophia College; they were extremely well informed about their major subject as well as their state. We Nagas need to steps up and raise our standards, gather information on anything and everything, be passionate about one’s field of study and dream without any fear...

Going on exchange programme is every student's dream. I didn't think it was possible for me because of how much everything would cost but I'm fortunate that my sponsor Dr K &T Keditsu foundation did everything in making this programme reality,I'm forever grateful for their generosity and Love. During my exchange programme from 8 to 15 of sept 2019 to Mumbai, I've learnt about myself in many ways. I would never do if i hadn't stepped out of my comfort zone. It was scary and made me nervous to do that but i didn't regret it because coming here was a hard decision but I never had any doubts of how important it would be...

Firstly I reach out my heartful gratitude to Dr. K and T Keditsu foundation for organizing solidatory students exchange program and giving the opportunity to Kohima Science College students. One week time spent at Mumbai has helped me broader my mind and built my confidence. Its tentative scheduled visits to different fields have help to come out of my comfort zone. Experiencing and learning the culture of outsiders is a challenging task, seing how the world is running and changing thus only the smartest and fittest and most hardworking will compete and survived the advanced world...

First of all I would like to thank our almighty God for giving me such a wonderful opportunity .A special thanks to Dr. K &T Keditsu Foundation and Indian National Fellowship Centre for giving me such a productive experience. My first thought when I was selected for this program was that I will get a chance to share about our college and our progressing state Nagaland which is growing hand-in-hand with its rich culture, ethics ,values and traditions. But, when I got there and started interacting with them, I experienced a whole new world where people were so hardworking and dedicated...

Getting the privilege to experience one-week trip to Mumbai was almost like a dream come true. Being selected as one of the eligible candidate for the SSEP programme has been of my biggest achievement n great blessings. These seven days has changed my perspective of life completely .It came to my realisation that I've been living in a tiny space of mine. I was amazed to see how hard they work to earn their living and cared less to sleep ,I should say they are at run while I'm still asleep. It gave me a lifetime experience of being in TIFR (Tata Institute of Fundamental Research) learning about their researches and their progressions in science and technology...

This program helped me to clear out the misunderstandings I had towards other people's culture. It also helped me to learn more about our culture while preparing myself for this very program. I had a great misunderstandings regarding the purdah system followed by Muslims. I always thought they were complled but I came across a friend and she said that they loved to wear it and it's of different colours. Not just us but it also helped our friends from Mumbai to clear the otherwise ideas about Naga people and our culture. They had no ideas about we Naga rearing pigs and I was quite surprised. They have their own traditional food and it's of variety...

Solidarity Student Exchange Programme [SSEP] 2020

The 3rd Solidarity Students’ Exchange Programme (SSEP 2020) was held on the 15th of February 2020 at Hotel Eastgate, Kohima. SSEP 2020 was organized between Sophia College for Women, Mumbai and Kohima Science College, Jotsoma from 9th to 16th February 2020. The visiting team from Mumbai comprising of eight BSc. 2nd year students and two chaperones, interacted with students & faculty of Kohima Science College, visiting classrooms and laboratories of various departments. They had the opportunity to visit important heritage sites in Kohima and several villages nearby such as Kigwema, Khonoma, Viswema etc, interacting with the local people. They participated in interactive sessions covering a wide variety of topics including “Naga Culture Today” by Mr. Theja Meru (Advisor, TaFMA) at the RCEMPA, “Naga Textiles” with Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu (Mekhalamama), “Coffee- Cultivation & Careers” with Mr. Lichan Humtsoe (Founder & CEO Été Coffee), “Naga school children grow organic mid-day meals” with Ms. Keneisenu Vitsu (Head teacher, GMS, Viswema), “Working with Naga farmers & Women street vendors” with Mr Neichute Duolo & Mrs. Neikule Duolo (Entrepreneurs Associates), and “Story of Youthnet” at Made in Nagaland complex which gave them an insight into Naga culture and way of life. The students attended “Beloved”, a concert by Yamaha Artiste Mr. Nise Meruno & Mr. Nourhe Khate, followed by a personal interaction with Mr. Meruno at the Vivor Hotel. The visit to Directorate of IT and Science, specially arranged by Honorable MLA & Advisor, IT, Science & Technololgy, NRE, Nagaland, Shri Mmhonlumo Kikon, and conducted by Dr. Nesa, made a significant impact on the students who left Nagaland in awe & with a keen interest in future collaborative research work.

Without exaggerating, the time that I have spent in Nagaland from 9th Feb to 15th Feb 2020, if I were given the choice of exchanging it with gold and silver, I would not do it. Because what I have got from this trip are memories of a lifetime and valuable lessons that are far more precious than any noble metal. I thank my college for selecting me to be a part of such an esteemed program and making the best arrangements for us...

Being selected for SSEP was almost like a dream come true. I want to thank the Almighty for giving me such an opportunity and Sophia College who gave us this platform to improve, learn, explore and to develop confidence. Special thanks to the K and T Foundation, Kohima Science College and Sir Allan who made our trip comfortable and easy and also to the students of Kohima Science College with whom I share a great bond...

India has many states, each state has its own unique culture and tradition. Sophia College for Women and Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation gave me an opportunity to share my Maharashtrian culture with people of Nagaland. People there are very friendly and welcoming. I got to learn about their culture and history, made memorable moments and new friends whom I will remember for life...

First of all, I would like to thank Sophia college for giving me this wonderful opportunity to be a part of Solidarity Student's Exchange Programme. This programme has greatly impacted my life. It was truly an enriching experience. The 'Naga culture' has touched my heart and taught me that everybody should be in-tune with one's culture and tradition. Being a Science student, particularly the visit conducted...

First of all, I'd like to thank Sophia College and K & T Keditsu Foundation for giving me the opportunity to represent Maharashtra and its culture in Nagaland. The trip to Nagaland was a life changing experience. The beauty of the place, people, food, history and the diversity in the tribes in just 1 state is fascinating and enlightening. The way of living in Kohima is so simplified, calm and peaceful that, being from Mumbai, I felt I've entered a new world...

My personal experience in Nagaland was filled with lots of adventures and explorations. The itinerary comprised of interactions with entrepreneurs, musicians, successful people who achieved something in life by giving employment to others. These interactions made me realize that one should think about others in the course of obtaining success. The trip to Kohima Science college broadened our minds in terms of research and education...

I had been on a cultural exchange visit to Nagaland from 9th February-16th February, 2020. It was like a life changing experience. I would really thank Sophia College and Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation for giving me such a golden opportunity. Nagas are very attached to nature. All the food crops are grown organically. Women have a good dressing and make up sense. I really liked their comfortable clothing style...

As I pause to pen down my words, I remember the love and humility of the people of Nagaland. Torn between finding more meaning in what I do and trying to do things that I love, the visit to Nagaland was more of a soul-searching experience for me. The program was a perfect blend of academics and culture enriching both intellectually and emotionally, providing meaningful insights into contemporary methods in teaching and research. Hats off to all those who made it possible.

Nagaland! Some time ago, this eastern state of India was just another state of our country. Today, it has taken a place close to the heart of the entire Sophia College team that visited Nagaland as a part of the Solidarity Student Exchange Programme, 2019-20. On behalf of the entire team, I wish to thank our Principal, Dr. (Sr.) Ananda Amritmahal, Vice Principal Dr. Yasmin Khan, the Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, and Ms. Pooja Kamath, Indian National Fellowship Centre (INFC) for this joint venture...