AGOK organised a programme on the ardent need to change the mindset and perception of educated unemployed youth towards self-reliance at the NBCC Convention Centre, Kohima on August 22.
KOHIMA, AUGUST 22 (MExN): The Angami Gazetted Officers’ Krotho (AGOK) ‘Nounyü Rüchü’ on the theme “The ardent need to change the mindset and perception of educated unemployed youth towards self-reliance” was held at the NBCC Convention Centre, Kohima, on Friday.
AGOK President Neilasa Sopfü, in his address, spoke on the existential threat posed by illegal migrants across the state, particularly in Kohima and Dimapur. He said unemployment is directly or indirectly affected by non-locals, noting that menial jobs to top entrepreneurial positions are largely acquired by them.
Highlighting census data from 1991 to 2021, he said illegal migrants’ population has grown at an accelerated rate of 181.67%, and by 2051, Nagas may become a minority. Sopfü also pointed to economic drain caused by migrant business activities and joint ventures, as well as intermarriage and adoption.
President of NAGOK, Er Vipulhou Lhoungu, shared his personal struggles as a young engineer, attributing his success to perseverance and quoting Proverbs 16:3, “Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” He encouraged educated unemployed youth to undertake vocational training in sectors such as painting, electrical work, and plumbing.
WAGOK President Rokovisa Chase highlighted the state of the country’s economy, differences between private and government employment, unemployment issues, and threats posed by non-locals. He urged youth to adopt self-reliance and explore private-sector opportunities, noting stagnation in government service.
AGOK Legal Advisor Vikhozo Vitsu provided data on Nagaland’s business community, stating that out of 23,777 shops in the state, 17,055 are run by non-locals. He cited Mizoram as an example, where the Young Mizo Association prohibits outsiders from running businesses, and stressed threats to local identity, economic control, and unregulated trade.
SAGOK President Tepunol Yore spoke on addressing unemployment through ventures in agriculture and allied sectors, including commercial plantation crops, horticulture, aromatic and spice crops.
CGOK President Er Kekhrielhoutuo Nakhro highlighted the role of the education system and NEP 2020 in promoting skill development and vocational training. He encouraged youth to acquire training in any field that promotes the dignity of labour, noting that by 2030 a significant proportion of the population will be of working age.
