Advisor for Civil Administrative Works Division (CAWD), Kudecho Khamo, has urged Naga people to explore entrepreneurship instead of depending on outsiders for businesses such as groceries, bakery and confectionery.
He was speaking at the culmination programme of the 18 Chozuba A/C Baking and Confectionery Training Programme, organised in collaboration with the Women Resources Development (WRD), Government of Nagaland, and funded under the Local Area Development Fund (LADF) of 18 Chozuba A/C at the WRD Conference Hall, Meriema, on Friday.
Khamo said Nagas need to “rediscover their potential” and think beyond themselves, adding that “thinking itself is capital”. He noted that many young people continue to consider government employment the primary livelihood option, sometimes accepting fixed-pay jobs with meagre salaries.
He said this mindset can lead to frustration while discouraging young people from exploring productive opportunities. Khamo said Nagas should not depend on outsiders for groceries, bakery products and confectionery, which he described as businesses within the capabilities of local entrepreneurs and supported by a ready market.
“Every successful entrepreneur starts with a modest investment,” he said, adding that a business could even begin from one’s kitchen. He encouraged trainees to become employers rather than merely job seekers and stressed the importance of continuous learning and skill development.
Khamo said Nagaland has considerable potential for entrepreneurship, including opportunities in food processing. He also emphasised the need for aspiring entrepreneurs to build the confidence of banks through sound project proposals, financial discipline and proper account records.
Director of WRD Vilone Sakhrie appreciated the collaboration behind the training programme and encouraged trainees to make full use of the skills acquired.
Vekhozo Ringa, Headmaster of GHS Japan Riba, said entrepreneurship was essential to “assert one’s existence, compete and survive” in an increasingly competitive world, urging trainees to move beyond their comfort zones.
Reflections were shared by instructor Aoakum Difusa and trainee Dutalu Nienu. Machinery was distributed to the trainees by Khamo, followed by a prayer of dedication.
