Alomi Sumi, faculty and other participants during the International Hope Day at Assisi Auditorium, Dimapur on February 14.
Dimapur, February 14 (MExN): Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID), in collaboration with the National Domestic Workers Movement (NDWM) and Child Rights Movement (CRM), observed International Hope Day at Assisi Auditorium, Dimapur on February 14 under the theme “Hope Lights the Future.”
The event brought together around 250 children, parents and well-wishers to reflect on the transformative power of hope and perseverance.
Delivering the welcome address, Sr Jobina Varghese, Director of ACID, said the day is observed to promote hope, dignity and protection for children, especially those from vulnerable backgrounds, and to reaffirm the commitment to nurturing hope in every child.
Chief Guest Alomi Sumi, Project Coordinator of Child Help Line under the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Dimapur, emphasised that hope is the light that guides individuals through life’s darkest moments and transforms an ordinary person into an extraordinary one.
Citing the life of A P J Abdul Kalam, who rose from humble beginnings as a newspaper vendor to become the President of India, she described him as a testament to dedication, dreams and perseverance. She urged children to keep hope alive, remain confident and become messengers of hope as leaders of today and tomorrow.
Guest Speaker Ao Bendang spoke on the responsible use of social media and smartphones among children. He said while phones may be smart, users must act wisely. Highlighting both the advantages and disadvantages of social media, he cautioned that it can be beneficial but also harmful if misused.
Referring to the “generation gap,” he contrasted the experiences of earlier generations with today’s technology-driven lifestyle and encouraged children to use technology responsibly while maintaining balance in daily life.
The programme featured short cultural presentations and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Sr Graceful, Assistant Director of ACID, who urged children to be “ambassadors of hope” and advocates for global peace.
