Yarden Jamir
In a commendable effort to address unemployment among the youth and counter the social challenges it brings, the Mokokchung Town Baptist Church (MTBA) has taken a significant step towards empowering local entrepreneurs. Through its Home Mission, the church on Thursday provided startup loans to 12 beneficiaries under its Skill Training Entrepreneurship and Placement (STEP) Program.
The STEP Program aims to equip young individuals with the necessary skills and resources to start their own businesses, thus creating opportunities for self-employment and reducing the negative consequences associated with unemployment. A committee, formed under the program, selected these 12 individuals based on their entrepreneurial potential and the viability of their business proposals, as outlined in their TPR (Technical Project Report) submissions. The committee also played a crucial role in determining the loan amount for each of the 12 beneficiaries. The loan amount was decided based on the evaluation of the TPR they had submitted.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this initiative is that the loans are provided at a zero percent interest rate, funded by the MTBA.
To kick start this new chapter in the lives of the beneficiaries, an orientation and launching program was organized at the MTBA conference hall on Thursday. Tsukti Longkumer, a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community, conducted a comprehensive orientation session for the recipients of the startup loans.
During the orientation, Longkumer emphasized the key qualities required to be a successful entrepreneur and shared practical advice on financial management and time management. He encouraged the beneficiaries to nurture their innovative ideas and stay determined in the face of challenges.
Jungshiyanger, representing the beneficiaries, took the opportunity to express their gratitude to the MTBA for providing them with such a remarkable platform. He acknowledged the church’s efforts in promoting entrepreneurship and recognized the potential impact of the STEP Program on the lives of aspiring entrepreneurs.
Jungshiyanger further urged his fellow beneficiaries to work diligently, make the most of this opportunity, and collectively ensure the success of the program. He highlighted the significance of their actions in paving the way for future generations of aspiring entrepreneurs.
It is heartening to see a faith-based institution taking proactive steps towards addressing social issues and empowering individuals in the community. The MTBA’s efforts in promoting skill, training, entrepreneurship, and placement are commendable, and it is hoped that this initiative will serve as a catalyst for more such endeavors in the future.