Shillong, April 4: The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Shillong celebrated the graduation of its 2023 batch amidst the scenic beauty of Umsawli, Mawdiangdiang, Shillong.
The ceremony, held at the Lariti, marked a significant milestone for the graduates and the institution alike. NIFT Shillong, nestled amidst the picturesque hills and spread across 20.13 acres of land allocated by the Government of Meghalaya, has been a pioneering institute in fashion education in the North East region of India.
The campus, built with an aesthetically pleasing architectural design spanning approximately 8 acres, reflects the institute’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Since its inception in June 2008, NIFT Shillong has grown to offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including courses in Fashion Design, Accessory Design, Fashion Communication, Textile Design, and Master of Fashion Management.
The institute takes pride in providing quality education and skill development in the realms of art and design, preparing students for successful careers in the fashion industry. In line with its mission to foster collaboration and partnership, NIFT Shillong has forged strategic alliances with key stakeholders.
Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with organizations such as the North Eastern Handicrafts & Handlooms Development Corporation Limited (NEHHDC) and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong aim to enhance industry-academia interactions, promote multidisciplinary learning, and facilitate holistic development.
The graduation ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including the Chief Guest, Ms. Jesmina Zeliang, a cultural entrepreneur renowned for her contributions to the crafts sector. Ms. Zeliang, in her address, emphasized the importance of leveraging talents and resources to drive positive transformation, echoing the institute’s commitment to empowering students to make a difference in the world.
Ms Jesmina Zeliang, Founder Heiloom Naga and Cane Concept, over three decades of dedication to the crafts sector, has predominantly collaborated with women artisans. In 1993, she founded Heirloom Naga, aiming to explore and advocate for Nagaland’s textiles woven on the traditional loin-loom.
Heirloom Naga has played a vital role in fostering, enhancing, and safeguarding the weaving tradition, while also providing livelihoods to numerous women working from home.
The contemporary reinterpretation of these textiles, crafted in remote villages, swiftly gained recognition in upscale lifestyle outlets abroad, establishing Heirloom Naga as the state’s pioneering exporter.
In addition to her work with female artisans, Zeliang initiated another project in 1993, focusing on male artisans to highlight their craftsmanship through the innovative use of locally sourced sustainable materials under the brand Cane Concept.
Her latest endeavor, the Heirloom Naga Centre established in Dimapur, stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to promoting, preserving, and perpetuating traditional skills and practices, while also offering an immersive crafts experience.
She holds the unique distinction of being the sole female member on the Committee of Administration at the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts, serving as the Convenor for North East India.
Additionally, she serves as an Executive Member at the All India Handicrafts and Carpet Sector Skill Council and is an alumni of the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) facilitated by the US Government. Her inspiring contributions have been acknowledged by UNDP India, which has profiled her as a woman who inspires India.
She has been honored with multiple awards recognizing her significant contributions to the handmade sector. During his welcoming remarks, Mr. Shankar Kumar Jha, the Campus Director, extended his congratulations to the Graduating Batch of 2023, comprising 66 graduates from three specialized streams at NIFT Shillong (AD – 20, FD – 27, and FMS – 19).
He urged the graduates to uphold the tradition of academic excellence and innovative spirit synonymous with NIFT. Emphasizing their role as ambassadors of the institute’s esteemed reputation, he encouraged them to carry forward NIFT’s legacy with pride.
Mr. Jha also commended the graduates for their outstanding graduation projects, which included collaborations with leading brands, export houses, fashion retailers, online platforms, and garment manufacturers.
In her address, Ms. Tanu Kashyap, IAS, the Director General The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) reminded the 66 Graduates (AD – 20, FD – 27 and FMS – 19) of the words of Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
As you go forth from this institution, armed with knowledge, skills, and a passion for learning, remember the profound impact that you can have on the world around you.
Whether you choose to pursue further education, enter the workforce, or embark on an entrepreneurial venture, know that you have the power to make a difference, to effect positive change, and to leave a lasting legacy.
She encouraged the graduates to embrace the journey that lies ahead with courage, conviction, and optimism. Remember that the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. So dream big, work hard, and never lose sight of the incredible potential that resides within you.
As the graduates embark on their professional journeys, NIFT Shillong remains committed to nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and shaping the future leaders of the fashion industry.
