Tetso College welcomed the incoming batch through SALVETE Freshers Day 2026, held at the Amphitheatre on July 15. The programme began with the inauguration of a mini exhibit of Naga artefacts, a collaborative initiative between the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland, and Tetso College. The exhibit was inaugurated by Smt. Adela Moa, Director of Art & Culture, who attended the event as the Special Guest. The collections from the exhibit have also been made accessible online through NEIIPA’s digital archive - neiipa.in - a passion project of Tetso College.

The formal session was chaired by Jiya Toshniwal of BA English 3rd Semester. A symbolic Watering of the ‘Tree of Dreamers’ marked the beginning of the programme, followed by the College Anthem presented by the Department of Music. The opening prayer was offered by RM Donald, Resident Coordinator of Pelo Boys Home. Dr. Hewasa L. Khing, Principal of Tetso College, welcomed the freshers and the special guest, praising God for his continued sustenance upon the Tetso College Community. This year we welcome 766 freshers into 14 Undergraduate programmes at Tetso College, hailing from all districts around Nagaland and including students from Northeast India, also from India that include Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, Bihar etc. she said.

She also praised God for Tetso College being ranked 198th in the Top Bachelor of Arts Colleges in India 2026 by India Today and Marketing & Development Research Associates (MDRA), placing the College among the elite out of more than 45,000 colleges nationwide.

Finally she stated that more than anything else these accolades serve as a call for action to continue on in this shared commitment of approaching education and youth development with deliberate intention, deep thought and the utmost care.

Speaking on behalf of the freshers, Imsubenla Longchar of BA English 1st Semester expressed she talks about her experience on her 1st day at the campus and gratitude for the warm welcome and shared the excitement and aspirations of the new batch. Followed by one of the highlights of the event where participants showcased their confidence, personality, cultural heritage by the Mr. And Miss freshers contestants with traditional and introduction rounds. Representing the senior students, Kuzuvelu Venyo, President of the Tetso Student Council UG,BA Political Science 5th Semester, spoke about her journey throughout the college days and encouraged the freshers to experience everything and not to be too reserved and explore with boldness. This was followed by a musical performance titled “Flashlight” by Keyichitube Nza, Boto Chishi, and Deisieyile, winners of Tetso Idol 2026.

Addressing the gathering, Smt. Adela Moa shared her experience with the founder of the college, Dr. P. S. Lorin. She recalled how, upon returning to Nagaland from a visit to the United States, he observed that in Nagaland it appeared that physical labour was often considered unsuitable for educated people. To demonstrate the dignity of labour, he carried his belongings in a traditional Naga carrying basket and walked all the way from his village to Tseminyu. She described him as a man of remarkable determination who sought to change societal mindsets and establish an institution that would empower future generations.

Smt. Moa also spoke about Tetso College’s innovative and out of the box approach to education, highlighting the wide range of activities and opportunities available to students. Congratulating the college on its achievements and rankings, she commended its commitment to holistic learning. She further noted that the Department of Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland, entered into collaboration with Tetso College in 2023 and has continued to work closely with the institution. The mini exhibition of Naga artefacts inaugurated during the programme, she said, was a result of this ongoing partnership.

Reflecting on her own college years, she remarked that they were among the most memorable and formative days of her life. Encouraging the freshers to make the most of their time in college, she urged them to work hard, develop their talents, and take full advantage of the facilities and programmes offered by the institution.

In her concluding remarks, Smt. Moa emphasized the importance of adapting to a rapidly changing world while remaining rooted in one’s cultural heritage. She noted that cultural identity helps preserve ancestral wisdom, strengthens a sense of belonging, and provides guidance in facing future challenges. She concluded her address by sharing a verse from the Bible, Philippians 4:8.

The informal session of the Freshers' Day programme commenced immediately after the formal session and was hosted by Shitsala W and Kivitoli Rengma. The session featured a variety of performances and activities that showcased the talents and enthusiasm of the students.

The programme began with the Mr. and Miss Fresher Designer Round, where contestants presented themselves creatively before the audience. This was followed by a musical performance of "More Than I Can Say" by Heli Wotsa, a third-semester MA Political Science student.

Adding energy to the event, Tshetelolu Wezah, winner of the PG Talent Showdown 2026, delivered an impressive dance performance. The audience was then treated to a soulful rendition of "Hopelessly Devoted to You" by Christy Kent, a fifth-semester BA Political Science student. Following the performances, contestants participated in the Mr. and Miss Fresher Formal Round.

The programme continued with a performance of "Hello Darlin" by Sholozu Tep, a third- semester BA student, followed by an entertaining presentation of "4B" by Alvina's Team. The lively performances kept the audience engaged and contributed to the celebratory atmosphere of the event.

The informal session concluded with the much anticipated declaration of the Mr. and Miss Fresher results, where Tongpangkokba Jamir of Psychology and Tarenjungla Longkumer of Mass Communication department were declared as the winners of Salvete 2026 Freshers Day. Marsosang Jamir of Mass Communication bagged Mr. Multimedia and Male ethnic wear, Vetalü of political science as female ethnic wear Mughasheli Swu of B com and Nito k Aye of sociology Department bagged Mr. Congeniality & Miss Congeniality respectively, marking the end of a memorable Freshers' Day celebration filled with talent, creativity, and camaraderie among the students.