President of Sumi Hoho, Dr Vihuto Asumi has urged the students not to pursue education merely for the sake of obtaining qualifications, but to study with purpose, vision and goals. He was speaking at the 40th Zunheboto Range Students’ Union (ZRSU) General Conference was held on January 9 on the theme, “Rising with Vision” locally translated as “Jukucho Lono Ikuthu”.
Quoting a well-known saying by Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, he remarked,
“Ask me my three main government priorities and I will tell you education, education and education,” highlighting the importance of education in shaping individuals and society. He said that education is the only means that can take a person to where they aspire to be in life.
Sharing his personal experiences, Dr Asumi said he had the privilege of visiting the United Kingdom and speaking at the Pitt Rivers Museum in London, where he spoke about Naga history. He also expressed gratitude for the introduction of Christianity and education, which have played a significant role in societal transformation.
Dr Asumi pointed out that while people abroad often value and wear their traditional attire during important occasions such as weddings, many youths here tend to consider traditional practices as outdated and instead adopt Western culture. He stressed that while qualifications are important, quality education is essential and what matters the most.
Highlighting the value of time, he said that time waits for no one. While time passes quickly, he noted that individuals have control over how they use it. Everyone, regardless of status, is given 24 hours a day, but those who manage their time well are the ones who succeed and reach the top level. He reminded the students that time and life cannot be reversed, and therefore must be used wisely.
Quoting the insights of Dr Rochill, he said that knowledge of God, education and hard work together can lead a person anywhere in life.
He cautioned that procrastination leads to destruction and urged students to avoid distractions if they wish to become educated and disciplined individuals. He specifically advised students to limit distractions such as excessive use of social media and mobile games, and instead use platforms like YouTube for learning and self-improvement.
Dr Asumi remarked that action without vision is a nightmare, and encouraged students to invest their time productively rather than endlessly scrolling through social media. He added that the phrase “If only I had used my time better” is among the most regretful expressions in life.
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Emphasizing the value of hard work, he said that success is not an accident but the result of consistent effort. He noted that hard work often surpasses talent when talent fails to work hard. Speaking on complacency, he observed that teachers tend to notice high-performing students, struggling students and mischievous ones, but often overlook those in the middle. He added that many of the most successful leaders and individuals are those who were hardworking rather than naturally gifted.
Dr Asumi also highlighted that the present generation is witnessing education leading societal progress, with gender bias having no place in modern society. He acknowledged the increasing role and impact of women in decision-making and development, stating that society today cannot function effectively without women’s participation. He urged students to become agents of positive change in society.
He concluded by cautioning that money is at the root of many forms of corruption and advised students to uphold strong values and integrity.
Addressing the gathering, Zunheboto Tokujo Sumi Totimi Loka President emphasized that a little education is not sufficient in life and urged students to have clear goals and vision. She advised the students to be sincere and to respect their parents and others, stating that respect is a fundamental quality for anyone aspiring to become a leader in the future. She noted that today’s generation has changed significantly, with students completing their studies and graduating at an early age, sometimes as young as 17. She encouraged students to respect their parents, especially their mothers and fathers, and to study with the aim of becoming responsible individuals rather than remaining idle.
Earlier in the programme, the session was chaired by Ghunato H Zhimomi, with an invocation prayer offered by Kitovi T Yeptho, Pastor, Lizu Aviqato Baptist Church. Greetings were delivered on behalf of the Zunheboto Tokujo Sumi Totimi Loka. A special prayer for the students and the host village was offered by Dr Ikheto Awomi, Pastor and Chairman, Zunheboto Area Church Leaders Fellowship, SBAK Aizuto. The programme also featured a special song presented by the Natha Old Students’ Union.
