A Heartfelt Ode to My Alma Mater: Celebrating 50 Years of Khliehriat Higher Secondary School

By: Dr. Ryngkat Phawa, Class of 1999, Dkhiah West

As I stand in awe of Khliehriat Higher Secondary School’s 50th Golden Jubilee, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, humility and nostalgia. My 7 year journey from 1992 to 1999 was a transformative experience that shaped me into the person I am today. The school’s walls, classrooms and playgrounds are etched in my memory and its values, teachings and spirit continue to inspire me.

I still remember the day my mother entrusted me to this esteemed institution after I passed Class 3 from Dkhiah Lower Primary School. I was nervous, but my mother’s trust in KHSS and its vision gave me the courage to take the leap.

I fondly remember my classmates, Sony Nongtdu, Comestar Bareh, Diwell Rngi, Iamonlang Sympli, Yoshida Shylla, Dr. Januarius Nongtdu, Hermesh Lyngdoh, Sunnyday Bareh, Siyoo Bareh, Dabha Nongtdu, Bethel Sutong, Arwinson Ksih, Final Langbang, Wailad Ksoo, Gowell Phawa, Beriel War, Ram Rupsi, Kmil Bareh, Angelica Bareh, Aiom Shadap, Shimti Shadap, Yes Shylla, Arkijuh Bamon, Skhem Lapsam, Bindu Suja, Chrispin Nongtdu, Melinda Nongtdu, Everlasting Nongtdu, Balary Sympli, Roselinda Dkhar, Roiphi Sympli, Merinda Dkhar, Fatima Lyngdoh, Smat Lyngdoh, Biangmon Shylla, Bhalang Dkhar, Pressila Dkhar, Pressida Latam, Lugina Syih and Dr. Suresh Bareh among many others whose names I cannot recollect, please forgive me if I have missed anyone.

As I reminisce about my time at KHSS, I am saddened by the loss of some of my dear classmates and teachers who are no longer with us. My heartfelt condolences go out to their bereaved families. May their souls rest in peace and may their memories continue to inspire us.

I am deeply indebted to my teachers who selflessly dedicated their lives to shaping mine. From Class 4 onwards, I was blessed to have mentors like Kong Aurelia Suja, Sir Victor Bamon, Kong Bal, Kong Criss, Kong Laura Suja, Wabu Lowis Swer, Sir Madrass, Sir Shabas, Sir Beltazer, Kong Meris Biam, Kong Marbiang Nongtdu, Sir Ramesh, Sir Vishwanath, Sir Matthews, Sir Thomas, Sir George and Sir Shatki among many others.

I remember the rainy days when we didn’t wear uniforms, and Fr. Henry Fantin would understand our situation. If the rain was heavy, he would even send us home, prioritizing our safety and comfort. Such kindness and compassion have left an indelible mark on my heart.

My life in KHSS was truly memorable, filled with fun memories that still exist in my life even after 25 years. Graduating in 1999, I am overwhelmed with nostalgia as I see the many changes in the school – from the buildings to the students, staff and playground. It’s like a homecoming and I am grateful to have experienced it.

I pay tribute to the founders of our school and the Christian community of Khliehriat who started this institution in 1974. I also acknowledge the tireless efforts of Fr. Joseph Fantin and his brother Fr. Henry Fantin who took charge of the school and raised it to new heights. Fr. Henry Fantin’s vision and leadership transformed Khliehriat M.E. School into Khliehriat High School and eventually into the esteemed Khliehriat Higher Secondary School we know today.

Under Fr. Henry Fantin’s guidance, the school achieved numerous milestones, including recognition under the deficit system in 1986 and the introduction of Arts, Commerce and Science streams in 10+2. His legacy continues to inspire us and I am forever grateful to have been a part of his vision.

During my time at KHSS, the school organized many extracurricular activities, such as soft games, quiz competitions, debates, science trips, football, and volleyball tournaments which helped shape our minds and characters. These activities taught us valuable life skills such as teamwork and discipline.

KHSS has produced many notable public figures, including doctors, engineers, teachers, lecturers, professors, businessmen, politicians and social workers, who have contributed hugely to society.

My family has a long-standing connection to the school. My sister, Ms. Percia Phawa, graduated in 1988 and became a lecturer. My brother, Sambunlad Phawa, graduated in 1995 and became an engineer and I, Ryngkat Phawa, graduated in 1999 and became a doctor and we are forever grateful to the KHSS

I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to the school management, teachers, staff, students, and alumni on this momentous occasion. Your dedication, hard work and commitment to excellence have made KHSS a shining example of educational excellence.

To the teachers and staff, I offer my deepest gratitude for your tireless efforts in shaping young minds and hearts. Your influence has been profound and your legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

As KHSS celebrates its Golden Jubilee, I pray for continued success, growth, and prosperity. May the school remain a beacon of hope, learning and opportunity for generations to come.

Congratulations once again, KHSS, on this remarkable milestone. May your Golden Jubilee be a joyous and memorable celebration!

May the school continue to thrive and produce exceptional individuals who make a positive impact on society. May the values of compassion, integrity and excellence that KHSS embodies continue to guide its community.

Thank you, and I am forever grateful to the institute, KHSS.