The Hotel Management Program, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of the Honda India Foundation implemented by the Visan Foundation, was inaugurated today at Agape Higher Secondary School Auditorium at 9:00 a.m. The program was organized in partnership with the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) and hosted by Akehda Amulung.
The event was attended by Theose Thongtsar, Additional Mission Director, NSRLM, as the special guest, while Irothe T. Sangtam, Secretary of Akehda Amulung, chaired the program.
In his welcome address, Khumpile H., Board of Directors of Akehda Amulung, expressed enthusiasm for the launch, calling it 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 acknowledged Menuoneituo Chadi, COO (Skill), NSRLM, for guidance in implementing the program and wished the students success in their training.
Adrian, trainer from Visan Foundation, introduced the course, explaining that the foundation was established in 2013 to skill underprivileged students and help them gain sustainable employment. He said the two-month course under the Food & Beverage Service Department is designed to develop leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills. The program also offers government certification, on-the-job training (OJT), 100% job placement assurance, and facilities such as meals, housing, 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 people in Nagaland is unemployed, he encouraged youth to take this opportunity seriously. He also shared success stories of past trainees, including two youths from Nagaland who secured jobs in Japan through this program, earning over one lakh rupees per month.
He urged trainees to remain dedicated and patient, reminding them that while the journey will not be easy, hard work and perseverance will lead to recognition, promotions, and self-reliance. “Opportunities like this do not come often to our district. This training can be the start of your journey toward independence,” he said.
The program also acknowledged the contributions of 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 organization’s commitment to empowering the youth of Kiphire.