The 30th edition of Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) General Conference was held at Ukhrul district headquarters from August 24-26 with the theme “Solidarity Beyond Borders”.
Speaking as honoured guest during the inauguration, School Education and SCERT adviser Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome vouched for “One Naga” that was strong and vibrant. He said this could be realised when the Nagas accepted their differences and come together just the way they were.
He lamented that Nagas were divided, adding that only the nomenclature bound the people together.
“We are a small group of people. However, we have no unity amongst us and this is the greatest threat ,” he cautioned.
He reminded the gathering that Nagas fought and overcame many “fears”. While some fears needed to be fought separately at different levels, there were others that needed to be fought collectively, he added.
He stressed understanding the idea that was floating around and come out with a solution.
Yhome acknowledged that since its inception in 1947, NSF as an organisation had been standing for the fact that Nagas were “One People and One Nation”.
He urged the federation to continue to be the beacon of hope to the people. Earlier, the adviser unveiled the monolith to commemorate the 30th NSF General Conference 2023 at Nayi Kaphung, Ukhrul.
He thanked the donor of land, the Hunphun, for giving a “piece of their heart” to honour the Naga people and their journey towards a common goal.
NSF president Kegwayhun Tep along with presidents of respective federating units hoisted the NSF flag on the occasion. Speaking on the theme “Solidarity beyond Borders”, Nagaland University pro vice-chancellor Prof GT Thong emphasised that solidarity should be everyone’s commitment for strengthening themselves and care for their people with concern for justice no matter whether they were beyond borders.
He admitted that a sense of solidarity was essential for protecting the collective welfare and for advocating justice for Nagas, irrespective of the artificial boundaries.
He observed that all Naga brethren must be protected from exploitation and maltreatment at the hands of any outside forces.
“We must stand together and speak up against any and all forms of injustice that affect any Naga person. Through solidarity and unity, we can have a voice and be heard despite being geographically divided by artificial boundaries,” Thong remarked.
Earlier, the inaugural session was chaired by former NSF general secretary K Elu Ndang, while invocation was pronounced by Tangkhul Baptist Churches’ Association (TBCA) executive secretary Rev Dr Mathomi Vasha.
The president’s address was delivered by Kegwayhun Tep, while greetings were conveyed by leaders of the North East Students’ Organisation, Eastern Naga Students’ Federation and United Naga Council. Special presentations were made by The Musical-Trio Dimapur, Tangkhul Nagas (Myanmar) and Guru Rewben Mashangva.
The valedictory session was held with Lok Sabha member from Outer Manipur Dr Lorho S Pfoze as the special guest.
NSF team for 2023-25
Medovi Rhi from Chakhesang Students’ Union was elected as the new president of the NSF for the tenure 2023-2025.
Other executive members of the federation chosen at the conference included Mteisuiding Heraang as vice-president, Chumben Khuvung as general secretary, Kenilo Kath as asst general secretary, Temjen Toshi as education secretary, Heikho Rengma as finance secretary, Pitongo Shithou info & publicity secretary, Kaisu Chakre as social & cultural secretary, Kato P Awomi as speaker and Kawoka V Awomi as auditor general.