Dreams, jobs, and thestruggle in between

Hook / Opening:
“We studied for years… and still nothing!”
At a small tea stall in Dimapur, Aren’s words echo the frustration of countless youth across Nagaland.
Aren: “Jobs? Everyone promised life would be secure if we studied hard. But here, opportunities are so rare.”
Neiku: “True. Some leave the state for work, others settle for odd jobs. Meanwhile, politics decides who gets ahead. The best minds—those who could guide the economy—are busy teaching, running small businesses, or stuck in ministries and NGOs.”
Reality: Youth unemployment in Nagaland is around 27%, with urban youth nearing 40% and rural youth around 23%. Among educated youth, graduates (~19%), postgraduates (~27%), and diploma holders (~36%) remain jobless. Beyond numbers, these figures mask the everyday struggles young people endure.
Aren: “Even private jobs in Dimapur or Kohima demand experience we can’t get elsewhere. How are we supposed to start?”
Neiku: “And decades of insurgency—the longest-running in Southeast Asia—have shaped our lives. Economic opportunities are scarce, and many dreams remain unfulfilled.”
Indeed: Unemployment isn’t just statistics; it’s frustration, lost dignity, and broken aspirations. Youth seek purpose, recognition, and a chance to contribute meaningfully.
Aren: “Waiting for government jobs isn’t enough. Skill programs, local startups, and micro-businesses could make a real difference if properly supported.”
Neiku: “But until our voices are heard, we’ll remain restless.” Truth: Restless, yes—but not hopeless. Conversations like Aren and Neiku’s reflect real concerns, ignite awareness, and inspire action. Dialogue and persistence are the first steps toward change.
Closing Note: Jobs may be scarce, politics complicated, and history heavy—but youth can still turn dreams into reality through creativity, resilience, and collective effort.
About the Author:
Ren James,
Social Entrepreneur & Independent Consultant.
(Associated Social firms: Skill Alli, Little Hut, NRS Pro-Link