YAAW marks silver jubilee with visionary resolutions

The Youth Association of Aongza Ward (YAAW) celebrated its Silver Jubilee on Wednesday at Aongza Ki, commemorating 25 years of youth-led community engagement and development with Minister for Research & Development and State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD), Metsubo Jamir, as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Jamir reflected on Aongza Ward’s legacy as the “Mission Compound” and a cradle of leadership across diverse fields. He lauded the founding members of YAAW for their foresight in establishing the association, describing it as a “God-gifted notion” for collective welfare. Highlighting the association’s apolitical character, Jamir noted that 60 percent of its members uphold the principle of truthfulness, a value he urged the younger generation to inherit.
Jamir also cautioned against the overuse of technology, which he said risks eroding human connection across generations. He emphasized that gadgets should serve as assistants, not substitutes for personal interaction. On education, he advocated for its role as a tool of empowerment rather than a mere pathway to white-collar employment.
The keynote address on YAAW’s motto, “Rooted in Strength, Soaring to Greatness,” was delivered by Assistant Professor at Nagaland University, Dr. Tiasunep. Founding president Toshimeren shared insights into the association’s formation and growth, while current president Talisunep Ozukum delivered the welcome address.
As part of the celebration, CEO of Minerals & Mining, Temjenmoa Jamir, released the Silver Jubilee Souvenir. The association also honored two senior citizens of the ward Lanutsulak (Waromung), aged 95, and Karilula (Mangmetong), aged 89 for their enduring contributions to the community.
Two resolutions were adopted under the Jubilee Resolution Committee led by Dr. I Wati Imchen: YAAW will regularly organize activities in sports, music and arts to promote holistic youth development, with a dedicated committee to oversee implementation.
To combat youth unemployment, the association will conduct periodic entrepreneurial workshops aimed at fostering self-reliance through practical skill-building.
The event featured a jubilee greeting by Aongza Ward chairman Longritemjen Ao, a special prayer for youth by MTBA Pastor Bendang Jamir, and a vote of thanks by Planning and Fund Raising Committee Convenor, Dr. Aoyimsen Jamir.