Kohima: President Droupadi Murmu presented the 2026 National Teachers Award to Rokosekho Ronald Meru at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on September 5. Meru is the only recipient from Nagaland this year. The honor follows his District Teachers Award in 2018 and his State Teachers Award in 2023.
Meru began his career on July 19, 2002, at a primary school in his native Khonoma. He later spent a decade teaching at the Government Higher Secondary School in Pungro. He moved his wife and three daughters to the remote district, located near the Myanmar border, in July 2014. The move required grueling travel, often starting at 2:30 am across rough, unpaved mountain roads. He stated, "As a government servant, I should go wherever I am posted."
Pungro lacked basic infrastructure, including proper toilets and a library. Meru worked to support students from villages like Zanger, Salome, Phuvkiu, and Mimi, many of whom lived independently and worked during school holidays to survive. He taught carpentry, repaired school property, and built furniture to provide practical skills. He mentored students outside the classroom, even befriending those who struggled or dropped out. "We had some students in classes 9-10, who are already married. Early marriage is not a new thing there," he noted.
Meru transferred to Sechü-Zubza in January 2024. Throughout his 24-year career, his own daughters excelled, with one securing a top-seven finish in her HSSLC exams and another becoming a subject topper. He urges students to pursue excellence beyond just passing marks. He remains focused on helping youth become assets to their communities. "I am happiest when they are able to achieve something," he said.
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