Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JUN 13 (NPN): Ao Kaketshir Telongjem Dimapur Government College (AKTDGC) commemorated its golden jubilee on June 13 at IMC Hall under the theme “Shisaliok Tashi Nung Pelatepdi” (Celebrating the Power of Education).
Addressing the inaugural session as special guest, Business Association of Nagas (BAN) president L. Mongkhum Jamir described the 50 year milestone as a significant achievement and urged the gathering to honour the pioneers who laid the institution’s foundation.
Reflecting on the passage of time, Mongkhum noted that immense changes had taken place over the past five decades and emphasised the need for society to continuously adapt and grow. “The moment we stop growing mentally and physically, it marks our end,” he said, mentioning that jubilee celebrations should not only be festive but also a time for introspection on the future.
He further stressed that such occasions should prompt individuals to question their identity, purpose and direction in life. Highlighting economic concerns, Mongkhum lamented that Nagaland remains largely a salaried economy dependent on government jobs. While clarifying that he was not opposed to government employment, he questioned the sustainability of such a model.
He asserted that government itself is sustained by the economy, which is built by entrepreneurs, businesses, innovation and creativity. Terming the economy as the foundation of any state, Mongkhum observed that developed nations thrive on strong economic systems and urged students and youth to utilise education as a tool for economic development and self reliance.
Expressing concern over dependency culture, he remarked that many Nagas rely on external support, contributing to economic stagnation. Pointing out that India has emerged as the fourth largest economy globally, he questioned how much Nagas were contributing to it. Drawing comparisons with countries like Singapore and South Korea, which rose from difficult circumstances to become global economic powers, Mongkhum challenged the youth to reflect on what is lacking and to strive for progress.
He later emphasised key areas such as investment, entrepreneurship, compounding, technology and collaboration in shaping a stronger economy for the state.
Earlier, the inaugural programme was chaired by AKTDGC office bearers, with invocation by associate pastor DABA, Imtimenba Jamir; jubilee greetings by AKTDGC president Wapangmeren Jamir; and short speeches by first AKTDGC president K. Tongbang Jamir, Ao Kaketshir Telongjem Dimapur president Imnatemsü Pongen, and AKTDGC alumnus Imkong Imchen.
Highlights included a jubilee song by AKTDGC assistant cultural secretary Benjongsula Jamir and friends, a special number by Wapangnaro Jamir, prayers by the first AKTDGC general secretary, vote of thanks by convener of the Jubilee Planning Committee K. Temjen Jamir, and benediction by associate pastor youth, Longkong Baptist Arogo, Tsüknungmeren Jamir.
In the second session, Associate Professor and HoD of Political Science, DGC, Purtila served as guest of honour.