Highlighting the detrimental effects of factionalism in Nagaland, veteran politician, former chief minister of Nagaland, and former governor Dr SC Jamir said it contradicted the notion of unity. Addressing the third convocation ceremony of St Joseph University (SJU) at Ikishe Model Village, Chümoukedima on Friday, Jamir said despite Nagaland being abundantly blessed with beautiful landscape, nature, festivals, colours, and tribes all of which made the state look very beautiful from a distance; yet lamented that when viewed closely, the notion of beauty changed.
To explain his point, Dr Jamir noted that there has been a mushrooming of underground factions and this did not signify unity.
Citing the proverb “United we stand, divided we fall”, Dr. Jamir asked the gathering, “Which one do we to choose” when Nagas have become victims of “divided we fall”?
He drew a parallel with an incident where two British ships fought each other in the dark, each thinking the other as the enemy. Similarly, he said this was the case in Nagaland where Nagas were in a self-destructive internal strife.
Dr. Jamir expressed the hope however, that God would give light to the Nagas and also urged upon the people to introspect what the darkness had caused to the state. He also urged Nagas to take note of their sufficient experience of last six decades of political struggle.
“The world is more like a global village today and the scientific advancements have further reduced the physical, intellectual and mental distances among people across the world. In such a fascinating and exciting scenario, I assumed that our leaders, especially the underground leadership, too will wake up to these epoch-making changes that are now sweeping the world,” he stated. Jamir said convocation have given him the opportunity to share his thoughts, ideas, and views on education and contemporary issues on a unique platform where all stakeholderswere present.
Expressing confidence that the students during their learning at SJU would have acquired knowledge and skills, he urged the graduates to navigate through the competitive world with a spirit of growth and fairness.
He also cautioned against neglecting the importance of knowledge and technology, highlighting their transformative power in overcoming challenges and driving progress. He reminded that people today were living in a knowledge-based economy, where knowledge was both power and wealth.
Dr. Jamir maintained that the strength of a country depended on its resources and knowledge, and that it has become inevitable for the Nagas to fit in with the modern world.
“As you set out of the familiar confines of your alma mater and make your way into an exciting world of myriad challenges and boundless possibilities, I am confident that the knowledge and the skills you acquired from this university will serve you well to create an identity for yourselves in this world and make your alma mater proud,” he said.
He urged them to be fully aware of the fact that they were living in a competitive world and reminded them that competition was the characteristic of modern world, adding that it was good since it propelled human growth. He reminded students of their responsibility to shape the future and contribute to the welfare of society, urging them to think big, work with determination, and embrace adversity as an opportunity for growth. He called upon the students to use their knowledge for the greater good, ensuring sustainable development of their community and nation.
He encouraged the students to dwell on mutual growth, while emphasising nurturing talent and fostering inclusive competition.
He explained, “My humble advice to you all is grow and let others grow, rise and compete too in a fair manner.”
Reflecting on the state’s remarkable economic development over the past six decades, the veteran leader remarked that he has had the opportunity of watching the state emerging from a very raw economy to a vibrant one currently.
He reminded the students of their pivotal role in elevating India and Nagaland to greater heights and to embrace innovation and explore uncharted paths. He also highlighted on the critical role of knowledge in today’s economy while underscoring the necessity of Nagaland adapting to the evolving global landscape, while also preserving its cultural heritage.
“If in the name of modernism, we destroy our culture and heritage, consequently it would amount to a suicide,” he added.
Emphasising the dynamic nature of learning, Jamir also urged teachers to stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies, to effectively engage with tech-savvy students. He also stressed active learning and encouraged students to embrace change and innovation.
Earlier, invocation was offered by campus manager Rev Father Arockia Sezhian MMI, welcome address delivered by SJU deputy registrar Rev Sister Thianes Mary DMI, and keynote address by Bishop of Kohima Diocese and SJU Pro-ChancellorRev Dr James Thoppil.