Nagaland University’s Kohima Campus marked International Microorganism Day 2026 on September 17 by hosting a series of academic and creative events aimed at showcasing the impact of microbes on health, agriculture, biotechnology and environmental sustainability. The program, organised by the Department of Biotechnology at the School of Engineering and Technology in partnership with the Microbiologists Society, India, Nagaland Chapter, carried the theme “Tiny Organisms, Big Impact: Microbes for a Sustainable Future.”
Prof Sujata Dash, Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology, opened the day as chief guest, while Dr Rajkrishna Mondal presided over the proceedings. Prof Pranav Kumar Prabhakar, head of the Biotechnology Department and state president of the Microbiologists Society, served as convener and highlighted the role of microorganisms in human health, food production, nutrient cycling, biotechnology and environmental sustainability. He urged students to pursue microbiology beyond the classroom.
The celebration drew participants from 12 institutions, including ten from India—Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Nagaland—and two international schools. Six competitions were held: a quiz (28 participants), poster making (22), reel making (17), microbial art (16), rangoli (14), and model making (9). Nagaland University contributed 33 entries, with participants often entering multiple events.
Activities blended scientific learning with creative expression. The quiz tested microbiological knowledge, while poster and model making fostered visualisation skills. Rangoli and microbial art introduced artistic approaches, and reel making encouraged digital communication of science. The event concluded with thanks to all participants, faculty, researchers, and volunteers, underscoring the importance of microbes for human well‑being and sustainability.
