 Kuntanil Das, IFM Academy, Chairman of Vernajyoti Educare Rahul Akahury and others during a press conference at The Heritage, Kohima on May 7. (Morung Photo)Kohima | 25-08-2025, Institute of Fashion and Modeling (IFM) Academy, an institution in creative education was launched in an event in Kohima on May 7. Founded by senior show director and image consultant, Kuntanil Das, IFM Academy informed that it has its campuses in Kolkata and Siliguri. During the press briefing at The Heritage, Kohima, Das said that said IFM Academy is not just an institution, it’s a movement towards empowering creative minds. “Nagaland is rich in artistry, individuality, and raw talent. We are here to channel that energy into meaningful careers in design and fashion. Our Kohima chapter is a commitment to the youth of this state — to dream, learn, and lead with confidence,” he said. He informed that IFM Academy now brings its national reputation and quality programs to Kohima, offering a platform to nurture and empower the next generation of creative professionals in Nagaland. “Recognized for its industry-driven curriculum, real-world exposure, and international affiliations, IFM Academy is associated with global fashion powerhouse Istituto di Moda Burgo, Milan. The institution also serves as the state collaborator for Miss Universe India —West Bengal edition, offering students exposure to the glamour and fashion industry. At the Kohima campus, IFM Academy will offer structured programs in Fashion Design, Interior Design, and Professional Modeling & Grooming, designed to suit aspiring professionals, students, and creative enthusiasts alike. The Fashion Design program is tailored to help students master every aspect of the fashion industry— from garment construction, textile science, fashion illustration, and pattern making to marketing and trend forecasting. The course blends classroom learning with hands-on projects, fashion shows, portfolio creation, and internship opportunities, ensuring students are industry-ready with a global outlook. The Interior Design program combines technical precision with aesthetic development. Students will be trained in design theory, space planning, material studies, lighting techniques, 3D visualization, and the latest design software. The curriculum emphasizes Practical learning through site visits, studio-based workshops, and real-time project simulations. It also integrates principles of sustainable and vastu-compliant design, making it culturally relevant and contemporary. The Modeling and Grooming course is curated for individuals aspiring to become fashion models, pageant contenders, or public personalities. The program focuses on ramp walk techniques, body language, posture, camera confidence, grooming, and personality development. Regular portfolio shoots, interaction with fashion choreographers, and live fashion show participation provide a professional launch pad into the glamour industry. All these programs are skill-based, with a focus on practical training, industry immersion, and real-world assignments. Chairman of Vernajyoti Educare Rahul Akahury expressed honour to bring IFM Academy to the heart of Nagaland through this partnership. “At Vernajyoti Educare, we believe in nurturing potential and creating platforms for excellence. With IFM Academy’s expertise and our local insight, we are confident of transforming Kohima into a hub of fashion and design education,” he said. Akuhury expressed hope that this collaboration will open new doors of opportunity for the youth of the region, allowing them to compete, create, and conquer on a national and international stage.” Vernajyoti Educare, a sustainability and community development organization, also announced the launch of its new Vocational Institute in Kohima, Nagaland. The institute will initially offer programs in Hospitality Operations and Fashion Design, with plans to expand to additional skill-based programs in the near future. “We have witnessed the incredible potential among Nagaland’s youth during our employment-linked Hospitality Skill Development Programs over the past two years,” said Sandip Das, Founder & Director at Vernajyoti Educare. He said this new institute will provide structured pathways to harness that talent and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.” Some key highlights include Fashion Design Program which is being offered in collaboration with the IFM, providing industry-relevant curriculum and certification; Hospitality Operations Program with 100% Placement assured, building on the success of government-supported skill development initiatives conducted since 2023 among others. The institute is located at Keyake P. Khel, Below ATI, Near Shalom Baptist Church, Kohima and is a unit of Vernajyoti Educare. An inaugural Fashion Show was hosted at The Heritage featuring collections of fashion designers Suvagata Das, Tejas Gandhi, and Suman Bhagat. The showstopper for the evening was Miss Universe West Bengal 2024— Sushmita Roy. Institute of Fashion and Modeling launched in Kohima | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com |
