Skill development training underway in Zunheboto

Morung Express News
Zunheboto | November 3

A 30-day Skill Development Training Programme in masonry and tiling, plumbing, and electrical works commenced at Lovedale School, Zunheboto on November 3. 

The training is being organised by the District Administration in collaboration with the AISECT State Resource Centre, Nagaland, under the Nagaland Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Mission (NSEDM) 2025.

The programme aims to empower local youth with practical skills for self-employment and entrepreneurship. The residential training will be provided free of cost to all participants.

Speaking at the inaugural programme, L. Chinglem Konyak, EAC Zunheboto, highlighted the importance of skill-based learning among the Naga youth. “Our Naga society is unique; many still depend on their parents even after the age of 30. I encourage the trainers to teach the trainees diligently, especially in plumbing and other technical trades,” he said.

He emphasized the changing mindset towards employment. “Getting a government job and seeking one are two different things. Earlier, the government encouraged people to join public service, but today the scenario is entirely different,” Konyak noted.

Pointing out the economic disparity in local businesses, he said, “During 2021–22 report, about 85% of shops and markets in Nagaland were run by non-locals, while only 15% were owned and managed by locals. It is something we must seriously reflect upon. We are all equally capable. It's time to be more proactive and skill-oriented.”

He also observed that in some districts, locals are managing small trades such as tailoring, barbering, and cobbling. “When I visit salons or tailoring shops, I often see non-locals running them. However, in districts like Mon, these trades are largely managed by locals, something worth emulating,” he added.

Konyak also lauded local entrepreneurship efforts, citing the example of a locally owned Good Day Noodles and Chow Mein factory in Zunheboto, which now supplies products to other districts including Dimapur and Mokokchung.

Encouraging participants to take the training seriously, he remarked, “Whether you join government or private sectors even on a contractual basis, being skilled will always make you employable. Training is therefore essential.”

He further informed that the government offers several business and skill development loans to promote entrepreneurship among the youth.

Also speaking at the event, Reuben Ellis, representing the school administration, urged the trainees to “cooperate with the trainers, maintain discipline, and stay motivated throughout the course.”