Minister for School Education and SCERT Yitachu has called upon youth and students to act as agents of change in the society and the State at large saying the hope lies in them.
Speaking as chief guest during Kandi Students’ Union (KSU) golden jubilee celebration on December 31 at Kandi village, Yitachu said jubilee is a time to introspect and a time to face challenges that are “real and practical”.
Reminding the students that they are the future, he encouraged them to transform the society for which the minister said one has to be truthful.
On unemployment issue in the state, Yitachu said he would not allow education department to be used as a platform to solve unemployment problem in the state instead it would be an institution where quality education could be acquired.
Reminiscing the past, the minister said there used to be a time in Nagaland when people were “forced” to contest the elections, to become a leader in an organisation and that government jobs were given forcefully. However, he pointed out that at present there are thousands of job seekers for which he said educated youth need to seek other avenues for employment.
Pointing out that government job was not the only job needed to survive Yitachu said there was a need to encourage private entrepreneurship and industries in the state and that government should also reserve funds to promote the same. In this regard, he urged the students to encourage such ventures so that employment issue in the state could be reduced.
Also speaking on Naga political issue, Yitachu lamented that Nagas have “missed many opportunities” in the past not because Nagas were not capable but the same was not examined in the right perspective.
He then warned that if tribalism and factionalism continue then solution will remain elusive. While extending New Year greetings, the minister urged the people to continue the good work and to work hard towards Naga unity.
Greetings were also delivered by representatives of Rengma Students’ Union, Lotha Students’ Union, Pochury Students’ Union, Angami Students’ Union and Sumi Aphuyemi Kiphimi Kughakulu.
Other highlights include presidential note by KDU president Mehimo Apon, songs by jubilee choir and Hinenlo Kath, release of jubilee souvenir by chief guest and folk dance.
First president of KSU Neillo Rengma, host of government officials, contractors, entrepreneurs, village councils, churches, students and others attended the function.