The Yorubami Youth Association (YYA) Golden Jubilee was celebrated on January 16 at the Local Ground, Yoruba Village, Phek District, with Advisor for CAWD and Taxes, Government of Nagaland, Kudecho Khamo, as the special guest.
In his address, Khamo cautioned that the erosion of culture and tradition, driven by greed and self-interest, has weakened social unity and identity.
He placed special emphasis on the role of youth in shaping the future of villages and society. Stressing the need for cultural revival, he said harmony in society can be sustained only when people remain rooted in their values and faith.
Khamo said the fast-changing world, marked by intense competition, technological advancement, and materialism, has brought paradigm shifts across sectors, including employment, entrepreneurship, sports, and theological studies.
In this context, he urged young people not to be discouraged by competition but to identify their potential and pursue their goals with commitment and determination.
Khamo highlighted that livelihood opportunities are no longer confined to government employment, noting that talents in sports, music, agriculture, and other fields can provide sustainable means of living.
He stressed that skill development, honesty, and hard work must guide youth in navigating the changing socioeconomic landscape.
Calling for the preservation of cultural identity, language, and faith, Khamo warned that unchecked modernization and globalization could lead to the loss of identity and moral confusion.
He further urged youth to stand firm in their faith, stating that values anchored in faith provide clarity and strength in an evolving world.
Guest of Honor Lhuvesayi Lohe, former president of the Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) and an entrepreneur, echoed similar concerns, stating that government jobs are increasingly saturated and that employment opportunities today are driven more by skills than qualifications alone.
The program also witnessed the release of the Golden Jubilee Souvenir by Padma Shri awardee and Baptist World Congress Quinquennial Human Rights Awardee Sano Vamuzo, who called for unity and oneness within the village to strengthen Naga society.
Greetings were delivered by Vethisa Lohe, Chairman, Village Council, Yoruba, and Zasevezo Rhakho, GB and former VCC, Kutsapo.
The welcome address was delivered by Mudihi Lohe, Head GB, while the presidential address was given by Rukuvezo Veswuh, President, YYA. The Yorubami Women Welfare Society presented a folk song, and a special appearance was made by the Phuhgumi Youth Welfare Union.
The program was chaired by Vekhruto Nyekha, Convenor, Organizing Committee, and began with an invocation prayer offered by Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao, Senior Pastor, CBCKMH. The vote of thanks was delivered by Pulesayi Lohe, Convenor, Finance Committee, and the program concluded with a benediction by Rev. Zaseyi Veswuh, Pastor, NCRC, Yoruba.
Earlier, the Golden Jubilee Monolith was unveiled by Advisor Kudecho Khamo. A dedicatory prayer was offered by Rev. Pukrolhou Lohe, Pastor, Yoruba Baptist Church, and led by Rukusayi Lohe, Convenor, Monolith Committee.
Later, competitions in duet folk tune, women’s folk dance, and men’s folk dance were held among various colonies of Yoruba Village.