Youth Association Aongza Ward celebrates Silver Jubilee; Dr Tiasunep stresses collective listening to discover realities
The Silver Jubilee celebration of the Youth Association Aongza Ward (YAAW) on Wednesday at Aongza Ki was marked by calls for youth self-reliance, responsible use of technology, and inclusivity in community life.
Chief guest Metsübo Jamir, Minister for Rural Development & SIRD, Government of Nagaland, applauded the Aongza youths for their non-political orientation and urged them to be cautious of the threats posed by modern technologies.
He cautioned against over-dependence on gadgets, saying, “Do not become friends with your phones. I hope modern technologies will be used judiciously.”
On education and employment, Metsubo reminded the youth that “Education should not be considered as an entitlement but empowerment.” He encouraged them to confidently face interviews and examinations without relying on parental influence. “It’s a shame to ask your parents to help you seek jobs,” he said, adding, “With your qualification and knowledge, you must be able to be self-reliant.” He also discouraged the practice of highly qualified youth being overly dependent on their parents, instead calling on them to focus on skill development and entrepreneurship to address rising unemployment.
Delivering the keynote, Dr. Tiasunep, Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology, Nagaland University, said that realities can only be understood when all perspectives and viewpoints are heard and gathered together. He stressed that every community, individual, and generation carries a part of the truth, and that collective listening is the key to deeper understanding.
Calling Aongza Ward “a ward that has practiced a culture where ideas are freely exchanged,” he said such openness encourages inclusivity. “Since each individual’s knowledge is limited, to find realities, we must listen to all perspectives and views, collect them, and only then can we arrive at the truth,” he remarked, urging the youth to remain open-minded and respectful of diverse voices including criticisms.
The Jubilee, celebrated under the theme “Rooted in strength, soaring to greatness”, also adopted resolutions which were read out by Dr I Wati Imchen. These included promoting all-round development by organizing activities in music, art, games, and sports, and constituting a committee for the same. The association also resolved to hold periodic entrepreneurial workshops to address unemployment challenges.
The program was chaired by Lanuakum Jamir, with Mesutoba, Deacon of MTBA, pronouncing the invocation. YAAW President Talisunep Ozukum delivered the welcome address, while Aongza Ward Chairman R. Longritemjen Ao conveyed jubilee greetings. The Jubilee song was presented by the Aongza Youth Fellowship and MTBA Youth Ministry. Toshimeren, the first president of YAAW, reminisced about the youth’s journey since its inception in 2000. A jubilee souvenir was also released.
The gathering was blessed by Pastor Bengang Jamir (MTBA), with a melody presented by Imtikumla Imchen. Dr Aoyimsen Jamir, Convenor of the Planning-cum-Fundraising Committee, delivered the vote of thanks, and the benediction was said by Tiaienla Ozukum, Youth Mentor, MTBA.
