Participants and officials during the inauguration of the Hotel Management Programme at Agape Higher Secondary School Auditorium, Kiphire, on October 3.
Kiphire, October 5 (MExN): The inauguration of the Hotel Management Programme, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of Honda India Foundation and implemented by the Visan Foundation, was held at Agape Higher Secondary School Auditorium, Kiphire on October 3. The programme was organised in partnership with the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) and hosted by Akehda Amulung.
The event was graced by Theose Thongtsar, Additional Mission Director, NSRLM, as the special guest, while Irothe T Sangtam, Secretary of Akehda Amulung, chaired the programme.
In his welcome address, Khumpile H, Board of Directors of Akehda Amulung, described the launch as a landmark step in empowering the youth of Kiphire with skills and opportunities in the hospitality sector. He thanked the Honda India Foundation, Visan Foundation, NSRLM, and all local partners for making the initiative possible. He also expressed gratitude to Menuoneituo Chadi, COO (Skill) NSRLM, “for the guidance and making this program happened in the district,” and conveyed his best wishes to the trainees.
Trainer Adrian from Visan Foundation introduced the course and explained that the Foundation, established in 2013, aims to skill underprivileged students and help them secure sustainable employment. He said the two-month course under the Food & Beverage Service Department is designed to build leadership, organisational, and decision-making skills. The programme will also provide government certification, on-the-job training (OJT), 100% job placement assurance, and facilities such as food, accommodation, and medical care after placement.
Delivering his special address, Theose Thongtsar highlighted the importance of skill development for employment, stating that “skilling has become the fine line between employment and unemployment.” Citing reports that one in every five persons in Nagaland is unemployed, he urged the trainees to take the opportunity seriously. He shared success stories of past trainees, including two youths from Nagaland who secured jobs in Japan through the same programme, earning over one lakh rupees per month.
He encouraged the trainees to remain dedicated and patient, reminding them that while the journey may be challenging, “hard work and perseverance will bring recognition, promotions, and self-reliance.” He added, “Opportunities like this do not come often to our district. This training can be the beginning of your journey towards independence.”
The programme also acknowledged the contributions of the United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC) for providing the training venue and Smokypots Naga Cuisine for offering their restaurant as an internship site.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Longtili C Sangtam, Founder of Akehda Amulung, who thanked all stakeholders and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to empowering the youth of Kiphire.
