Nagaland’s Advisor for CAWD and Taxes, Kudecho Khamo today stressed the importance of skill-based education, stating that learning must go beyond reading and writing and prepare young people to become employers rather than employees.
He said this while addressing the Annual Parent’s Day programme of Chakhesang Mission Higher Secondary School (CMHSS), T Chikri Pfutsero.
Highlighting that the world belongs to entrepreneurs, he emphasised the need to start clubs and short-term entrepreneurial skill-development programmes in schools.
The Advisor stated that education without morality, integrity and responsibility is dangerous and a threat to the department one serves, as well as to society, family and the church as a whole.
Despite advancements in technology and financial freedom, he said that without honesty and health, wealth becomes parasitic. He added that honesty and sincerity passed down through generations remain relevant to this day and told them to uphold.
He observed that the present educational dynamic has shifted significantly from the past with increasing demands, requiring the collective responsibility of children and parents, particularly in the use of mobile phones, which he cautioned can corrupt the mind.
He stated that the changing education landscape calls for collaborative efforts to maintain proper checks and balances and to recognise the essential role of the school.
Reiterating his strong stand against lifting the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, he said his experience has shown its large impact on society. In this regard, he called for stronger and more effective mechanisms for implementing the Act.
According to him, blaming poor-quality liquor is merely an excuse, and lifting the Act does not guarantee quality liquor. He pointed out the poor quality of imported fruits, medicines and other commodities when compared with other parts of the country.
Khamo also highlighted the Phek district mass cleanliness drive, informing that committees have been constituted with the district administration and civil society organisations for effective implementation and for rewarding towns and colonies. In this regard, he called for wider public participation.
He told teachers that they are the backbone and nation builders, to be conscious of their dealings with students and imbibe Christian values and social responsibility, without which their knowledge and degrees may become a threat to society.
Khamo stated that education is not only about books, reading and writing but also encompasses morality, rationality and quality education.
Meanwhile, he said that thousands are graduating and the number of people with high degrees is increasing, yet a huge unemployment gap persists despite abundant opportunities. He added that when one does not receive the right education, skills and competence, one becomes unemployed due to a mismatch between skill requirements and job market demands.
He stressed the need for the present generation to be skilled beyond their degrees and encouraged students and young people to think of becoming employers rather than only aiming to be employees. He also reiterated the need to instill entrepreneurial exposure in schools and suggested starting a Commerce stream in the institution.
He observed that Pfutsero dwellers are known to be hardworking and diligent, and he challenged the public to live worthy of these good traits and uphold them. He also highlighted the Chakhesang culture of respecting and honouring women and called for renewed efforts to protect and respect them.
Furthermore, Khamo told the students to have vision, think big, think positive, and not merely be dreamers, but pray, have faith in God, work for their goals and work hard.
On the occasion, the Employee Professional Development Fund (EDPF) was inaugurated by the Special Guest, Khamo. The launching programme was presided over by Rukuzo Ruho, Chairman of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA).
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Thujongoyi Dazo, Principal of CMHSS, and the programme began with an invocation prayer offered by Rev Dr Chekrovei Cho-o, Executive Secretary, CBCC. A speech on behalf of the parents was delivered by Esther Puro.
During the programme, the school choir and CMHSS staff presented choral pieces, with special presentations by Primary I & II, a musical theatre piece, sub-junior items and a folk song by the students. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Rev. Dr Kowepe Kanuo, Chairman of the School Managing Board (SMB), followed by a benediction prayer by Rev Dr Kuzhopoyo Tunyi, Pastor, CBMCC.
