Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, OCT 24 (NPN): The United Women Welfare Organisation (UWWO) celebrated its Golden Jubilee at Children’s Park, Supply Colony, Dimapur, on October 24, commemorating five decades of service dedicated to the welfare of underprivileged women, mothers and children.
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Deputy Commissioner Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, described the Golden Jubilee as not merely a celebration of an anniversary, but a tribute to the organisation’s mission, sacrifices, perseverance, unity and service to society.
Congratulating UWWO on completing 50 years, Dr. Tinojongshi acknowledged the contributions of its founder, late Daisy Yaden, former office-bearers, members and supporters whose dedication had sustained the organisation through various challenges.
He also expressed gratitude to the families of office-bearers and members, saying their support had played a significant role in the organisation’s journey.
Reflecting on UWWO’s work since its establishment in 1976, he said welfare activities required dedication, unity and sustained commitment, particularly when resources were limited.
Emphasising the role of women in society, Dr. Tinojongshi said women were builders of families and communities and key contributors to social, economic, educational and cultural development. He stressed that empowering women through education, equal opportunities and participation in decision-making would strengthen families and create more resilient communities.
He, however, lamented that women continued to face challenges, including unequal opportunities, economic hardships, discrimination, violence and social injustice.
Stating that women’s empowerment must go beyond slogans, he said it should be reflected in actions, attitudes and institutions so that every woman could live with dignity and pursue her aspirations without fear or discrimination.
Delivering the presidential address, UWWO president Amenla Saku paid tribute to the organisation’s founder and first president, late Daisy Yaden, recalling her passion and determination to uplift underprivileged sections of society.
Saku recalled that the first UWWO meeting was held on May 22, 1976, when late Daisy Yaden was unanimously elected as the organisation’s first president, while she was appointed the first general secretary. She said Yaden led the organisation for 47 years until her demise and remained committed to its unity, growth and future.
Highlighting the organisation’s motto, “Service to man is service to God”, Saku said UWWO had worked over the past five decades to improve the lives of underprivileged mothers and children through various welfare initiatives.
Among its major achievements, she highlighted the development and maintenance of Children’s Park at Supply Colony since 1987, providing a safe and nurturing space for children.
She also recalled the establishment of Balwati, a pre-nursery school for underprivileged children, in 1986, which is now known as the UWWO Play Centre.
According to Saku, the centre admits around 50 children annually in the two-and-a-half to four-year age group. She added that nearly 1,800 children had benefited from the initiative and subsequently joined mainstream schools.
She further highlighted several other initiatives undertaken by the organisation, including free medical check-ups for disadvantaged sections of society, training and awareness programmes for mothers on childcare, home management, hygiene and basic healthcare, as well as counselling and peace-building efforts among families, particularly those with minor children.
In addition, she said the organisation provided training in cutting, tailoring and embroidery to out-of-school girls from underprivileged families to promote self-reliance.
Saku said welfare work demanded considerable sacrifices of time, money and energy, describing it as the work of a “Good Samaritan” for the benefit of society. She thanked UWWO members for their cooperation and commitment, which had enabled the organisation to reach the milestone.
Calling upon members to rededicate themselves to the organisation’s mission, she expressed hope that UWWO would continue serving the community with greater commitment and zeal in the years ahead.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by UWWO secretary Martha H. Walling, while the invocation was offered by Amongla, Associate Pastor (Women), DABA. A short speech was delivered by Commandant, 30 Assam Rifles, Col. Rajeev Sharma. Words of gratitude were delivered by Satemla, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Marian Rao.
Highlights of the celebration included a children’s display by UWWO Nursery students and a special presentation by Sisterhood Voice, while the benediction was pronounced by UWWO’s oldest member, Watila.