Temjen Imna bats for skill-based education

Minister of Higher & Technical Education and Tourism, Temjen Imna Along Longkumer, graced the 34th Annual cum Fresher’s Social Ceremony of Pranab College as chief guest on Monday, where he called upon students to embrace holistic education and vocational skills to meet the challenges of unemployment in Nagaland.
Speaking at the college campus, the minister noted that while Nagaland ranks among the top states in literacy, it also faces one of the highest rates of unemployment. He urged institutions to equip students with employable skills and emphasized that academic qualifications alone do not guarantee jobs. “Hard work, humility, and the fear of God are the true foundations of opportunity,” he said.
Temjen Imna Along also addressed the impact of recent severe weather in the state, cautioning travelers to remain alert and avoid spreading negativity. He described landslides and floods as nature’s way of revealing itself and advised citizens to respond with wisdom and awareness.
Reflecting on Pranab College’s journey since its establishment in 1991, the minister lauded its transition to a co-educational system and praised its contribution to women’s education. He highlighted that 70% of college students in Nagaland are now girls and expressed confidence that women will soon lead the state in governance, business, and creative sectors. He also acknowledged the election of two women to the 14th Legislative Assembly without reservation, calling it a milestone in gender representation.
Encouraging students to treat their college as a second home, he urged them to support one another and build habits that would make them assets to society. He also called on teachers to recognize the unique learning styles of each student and nurture their potential.
The event featured the presentation of the Governor’s Awards in three categories: Academic Excellence: Debapriya Paul (1st Rank, CGPA 8.89, Dept. of Commerce, Nagaland University UG Examination 2025); Social Responsibility: Priyanka Dey (Dept. of English) and Excellence in Extracurricular Activities: Pelungning Hinglak (Dept. of Sociology)
Other recognitions included the Best Library User Award to Ihecile Siang (BA 5th Sem, Dept. of Sociology), and felicitation of meritorious students Níku Yeptho (2nd Rank, CGPA 8.74, Dept. of Education) and Debapriya Paul.
The chief guest also released the college magazine Pranab Vision and launched the institution’s new website.
Special guests Vili G Chophy and Kaheli Chophy, alumni of the college, were felicitated for their achievements by Assistant Professor Meyisangla Jamir (Dept. of English), followed by their addresses.
Earlier, the program was chaired by Assistant Professor Seiboy Khongsai (Dept. of Sociology), with welcome remarks by Principal Dr. Santosh Kumar and blessings from Joint Secretary Swami Chinmayanandajee Maharaj.