The inaugural session of the All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) Collegiate Meet 2024 commenced today at Livingstone Foundation International College, Dimapur. The event aimed to bring together students from various institutions across the state, began with a vibrant inaugural session attended by students, faculty, and distinguished guests.
The session began with the arrival of the Inaugural Guest, Abu Metha, Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister and Chairman of IDAN, Government of Nagaland. He unfurled the ANCSU flag, marking the official start of the meet.
Abu Metha in his address, urged the students to recognize their unique roles and potential in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Metha emphasized the unprecedented pace of change, driven by advancements in technology. “The world is moving at great speed,” he remarked, noting how technology now connects people across every corner of the globe. Highlighting India’s status as the world’s most populous country and a global power in fields like technology and space, he stated that students from Nagaland are stepping onto a world stage where the opportunities to excel and make an impact have never been greater.
In his speech, Metha reminded students that success has no shortcuts. “There is no luck in success,” he declared. “Only through hard work, discipline, and commitment can one achieve greatness.” He encouraged students to respect the efforts of those who have worked behind the scenes to make events like the ANCSU Meet possible, stressing that each of their roles contributes to a stronger, united Nagaland. “Sport has the power to unite people,” he said, underscoring the potential of activities like this meet to foster unity among Nagas.
Metha further urged students to pursue their talents passionately, advising them, “Everyone has a talent—pursue that talent, master it, and put your passion into it. Don’t chase dreams; let your talent be your guide.” He concluded with a vision of a brighter future, saying, “Nagaland needs each of you to win. The Nagaland of tomorrow can be even better than the Nagaland of today. Let’s work together to build a better place for all.”
In his Presidential Address, Tenyensilo Bukh, President of ANCSU, highlighted the union’s dedication to supporting the welfare and development of students across Nagaland. Reflecting on ANCSU’s founding in 1979, he reminded the gathering, “ANCSU was formed to carry forward the aspirations of the college student community, to promote better understanding and unity among the college students of Nagaland.”
He continued, “Today, we are gathered here to re-invigorate our strength, shoulder those responsibilities individually and collectively, attaining our motto, ‘Unity is Strength.’” Bukh elaborated on the three primary areas of activity for this year’s meet: Sports, Music, and the Knowledge Hub.
The Sports segment features competitions in football with 29 teams, volleyball with 30 teams, badminton with 22 teams, and a chess tournament with 31 players. For the first time in this event, Naga Wrestling, an indigenous sport, will also be included, with 43 wrestlers participating. The music fest will see seven bands competing in a beat contest to encourage talented musicians among the students.
The Knowledge Hub, open from October 30 through November 1, is a significant addition this year, aiming to foster knowledge sharing, skill development, and awareness among students. Various institutions, including NTTC, Aviation, NITI, Arms (Japanese), School of Agricultural Science, StartUp Nagaland, Educentre, NHM, and NSACS, will participate. Through this initiative, students will have access to training, entrepreneurship opportunities, funding resources, skills development, and sports scholarships, as well as awareness on topics like AIDS and drug prevention.
The ANCSU President emphasized the broader vision of the Collegiate Meet, saying, “This meet connects students from all districts, providing a platform for them to compete with passion and inspire each other. I believe that this event will allow students to refine their abilities and gain recognition beyond the college level, reaching even the state and national stage.” He concluded by urging participants to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and unity.
Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema, Chairman of LFIC, and Medovi Rhi, President of the Naga Students’ Federation, delivered greetings while Tsukjem Lkr, Convenor of the organizing committee, delivered the keynote address.
The event was chaired by Benjong Longchar, member of the organizing committee. Rev. Yimtsu Yanthan, Associate Pastor at Lotha Baptist Church Diphupar, delivered the invocation prayer.
Following this, a special musical performance was presented by Akokla Langu, winner of the ANCSU Virtual Solo Singing Competition 2021, and a special presentation was given by Arms Incorporation. The oath of participation was then administered by Duve Tetse-o, Games and Sports Secretary of ANCSU, formally initiating the meet’s events.
