400 youths trained in first phase
The closing programme of the “Providing Access to Core Employability Skills” (PACES) initiative was held on April 24 at Orchid Square, Indisen, Dimapur, organised by the Department of Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship in partnership with Zynorique Initiative Society (ZIS).
A DIPR report informed that, employment officer Kahoto K. Zhimomi, in his address, expressed gratitude to ZIS for conducting the training and highlighted that PACES has been implemented across Nagaland, covering selected subdivisions and aspirational blocks. He informed that 16 locations were identified, with the department aiming to train 1,000 youths. In the first phase, around 400 youths have already been trained, with plans to reach 1,000 in the next phase.
Kahoto acknowledged the support of advisor for Labour, Employment & Skill Development & Excise, Moatoshi, for providing the venue and logistical assistance. Addressing unemployment, he noted that over 70,000 youths are registered with employment exchanges in Nagaland, including more than 21,000 in Dimapur alone. He stressed that government jobs cannot absorb all job seekers and underscored the importance of skill development initiatives to empower youth towards self-reliance.
Encouraging trainees, Kahoto urged them to actively utilize their skills, form groups to initiate ventures, and remain dedicated to mastering trades through consistent practice.
Representatives of ZIS commended the sincerity and discipline of trainees, urging them to maintain humility, patience, and perseverance while building livelihoods. They cautioned against rushing for quick gains and emphasized the importance of using skills to serve society.
The programme began with invocation by Rev. Sentiyanger, pastor of Ao Baptist Church, Indisen. Trainees Tiayanger and Rongsengkaba Jamir shared their experiences, followed by certificate and toolkit distribution marking the successful completion of the training.