Yopikyu Thongtsar Memorial Trust (YTMT) hosted an Orientation Programme for the Second Batch of 2024-25 on October 5 at 2K Hotel, Officers’ Hill, Kohima. Theose Thongtsar, Chairman of YTMT and Officer on Special Duty (OSD), delivered the welcome note, stating that the Trust is providing opportunities for students to enhance their capacities for various competitive exams. He emphasized that the outcome will depend on the aspirants’ hard work, perseverance, and determination to succeed. He further challenged the students to give their best efforts, noting that only the best will emerge successful in this competitive world. Theose also mentioned that YTMT sponsored 40 students in the first batch and 53 students (9 in the Technical category and 44 in the General category) in the second batch.
Selichum Thongtsar, Trustee and Joint Secretary of the Works and Housing Department, delivered the keynote address, highlighting that YTMT was established in memory of his late father, Lt. Yopikyu Thongtsar.
Lt. Yopikyu, who studied in Mokokchung, was one of the first educated individuals from the Sangtam community. He managed his studies by working during the day and studying at night. In Kiphire, he initially served as a school teacher, later becoming a school inspector before entering politics in 1974. He was elected to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in 1977, 1982, and 1987. Lt. Yopikyu dedicated his life to serving the welfare of the people, and YTMT aims to uphold his legacy.
The Trust aspires to create opportunities for students from Kiphire District, especially those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, who are committed to achieving their dreams but cannot afford fees. Given the district’s backwardness and lack of proper connectivity, the Trust initiated coaching to level the playing field for students. Selichum urged the students to think big, be self-reliant, and stay committed to achieving their goals.
Er. Shadrak, SDO PWD (H) Industries & Commerce, representing Vega Coaching Institute, shared that the Institute has a young, well-qualified faculty, including five SDOs and one SA. He assured that the Institute will guide and mentor the aspirants in achieving their dreams, and thanked YTMT for their trust and collaboration.
Therlii Ovung, Proprietor of Intensive Coaching and Computer Institute, Kohima, mentioned that their government-registered, ISO-certified institute, established in 2018, has produced many successful candidates. She encouraged the students to persevere with honesty, dedication, and fear of God, reminding them that the hopes of the Trust rest on their shoulders.
Atoka Z Awomi, Human Resource Manager of PrepSchool for Civil Services, spoke about the institute’s affordable fee structure and its history of great results. He expressed gratitude to YTMT for their generous support and visionary collaboration, which is making a positive impact on Kiphire and beyond.
Sethrichumla Sangtam, speaking on behalf of the students, thanked the Trust for sponsoring them and congratulated her fellow aspirants. She expressed her pride in being part of the YTMT family and motivated her peers to work hard with commitment, dedication, and determination. She urged them to fulfill the Trust’s hopes and bring laurels to both YTMT and society.
Rev. Thsadong, Pastor of Sangtam Baptist Lithro Kohima, offered prayers for the students, and Likhumse Thongtsar, Trustee and Section Officer of the Finance Department, concluded the program with a vote of thanks.
Akhumse Thongtsar
YTMT Coordinator