Minister of Higher Education and Tribal Affairs, Temjen Imna Along called on the need for a golden Nagaland, devoid of corruption, prejudices, gun culture, tribalism and nepotism.
Speaking as the guest of honour at the inauguration of Coraggio School new campus at Lerie Colony Kohima, Along said it was the time for the present generation to dream for a better future, aspire and act upon it courageously without fear of prejudices.
He said Nagaland was one of the most literate states in the country, however people were not knowledgeable enough and often remain blinded by relying only on mere degrees and certificates. “What kind of Nagaland do you want to see, one built by laziness and drunkards or one built by people who relentlessly pursue for a better future,” Along asked the students. He emphasized on the need to be true to oneself and be original instead of imitating others and becoming victims of their bad influences.
Recalling his childhood days and how his mother paid his school fees by rearing pigs, Along exhorted the students to be proud of their parents no matter how poor or financially deprived they may be.
Your parents envision their own dreams through you and therefore you should work hard to manifest their aspirations which in turn would play a vital role in the progress of the State, Along said.
He thanked the chief patron, Vilelie Khamo for coming up with this vision of uplifting future generations. Along also encouraged parents not to give up their dreams although there may be corruptions, but to nurture their children to walk in the right path and hope for a better tomorrow.
Calling on the teachers, Along said, the future of the students were in their hands and therefore they should push them forward while upholding them in their prayers. Earlier, Along unveiled the new campus plaque and also the new jersey of ‘Gethemgo’.
Chief patron of the school, Vilelie Khamo, while sharing the vision of the school, said although he could not acquire any education, he had dreamt of starting the school to ensure that children were not be deprived of such facilities.
With that vision, Khamo said he started the school in 2004 in memory of his late mother Lechalie Khamo and with the help from Dr Hovithal Sothu and Neikeseno Bio the school had fared thus far.
Gethemgo Sports International director, Dr Viposa Kiso gave a brief account about the sports academy while advisor, Youth Resources and Sports, Zale Neikha who was also present at the inaugural programme later kicked off a Futsal exhibition match played by the students on the newly constructed pitch at the school premises.
Pastors Kho-o Pfükha and Khriesavituo Belho offered the dedicatory prayer and benediction respectively, while board of directors chairman Dr Hovithal Sothu delivered the welcome address and Neikeseno Bio gave a brief account of the school and later headmistress of the school, Annie Konthoujam proposed the vote of thanks.