Nagaland: Kaito underscores dignity of labour at USSC conference

Minister of PWD (R&B), G. Kaito Aye, has called upon students to uphold the dignity of labour, a value he said was deeply practiced by Naga forefathers through cultivation and hard work. He stressed that the principle of dignity of labour must be incorporated into education for the present generation.
Addressing the 77th United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC) at Tütheze village, Kiphire district, on Wednesday, Kaito urged students to alter their outlook and strive to catch up with the forward Nagas. Sharing memories of his forefathers, he said that people were created by God to live and work peacefully together.
Expressing happiness at being part of the event, Kaito said he came to share his political experience from 48 years of active politics. He encouraged students to pursue academic excellence not only for themselves but also for the community.
Lamenting divisions within Naga society, he observed that while reservation may provide jobs, it was temporary, and suggested that students should attempt competitive examinations in general, which he described as more respectable. Supporting ENPO and ENSF, he said he did not want division but unity, urging Nagas to live and work together to push society forward. He reminded that government has a system to run and called for collective support.
On education, Kaito remarked that the department had not been properly managed for the past 20–30 years. He alleged that proxy teachers had weakened the system, but assured that rationalisation of school education would be undertaken.
Deputy Commissioner Kiphire, Temsuwati Longkumer, also delivered a short speech. Earlier, USSC president Adekhing I Sangtam delivered the presidential address and submitted a representation to the state government through Kaito.
Advisors H. Sethrongkyu Sangtam and S. Kiusumew Yimchunger, former deputy speaker NLA T. Yangseo Sangtam, and former minister V. Kashiho Sangtam will also grace the conference as special guests, which will culminate on January 15.