SUD), established in 1999, celebrated its Silver Jubilee under the theme “Echoes of the past, Vision of the future” on Ocotber 10. The celebration was graced by P. Bashangmongba, Minister for PWD, Housing & Mechanical Engineering, Government of Nagaland, as the Special Guest, while Chingmak Chang, President of the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF), served as the Special Guest for the second session.
The day featured vibrant performances, including cultural presentations, traditional dances, and performances by renowned artists Moko Koza and Yemkongsomba.
In his address, P. Bashangmongba conveyed his heartfelt greetings on the occasion of the Chang Students’ Union Dimapur’s 25th anniversary. He highlighted the significance of the day, calling it a moment to honor the past, celebrate the present, and envision a promising future. Bashangmongba urged the gathering to remember and appreciate the pioneers and former student leaders who laid the foundation of the union 25 years ago.
Addressing the students, he emphasized the importance of adapting to the current competitive world, stating, “Today’s challenges are not the same as yesterday’s. We live in a world where survival of the fittest prevails.” He encouraged the students to stand on their own feet, stressing that respect should not only come from their parents’ identity but through their own efforts.
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Bashangmongba urged students to maintain humility before God and embrace the dignity of labor, emphasizing the importance of sincerity, determination, and dedication. He reminded them of the sacrifices their parents made for their education and encouraged them to lead by example for those in their hometown, Tuensang.
He also advocated for entrepreneurship, urging the students not to solely rely on white-collar jobs but to create opportunities for themselves. “You are the future of tomorrow, but your future depends on what you do today,” he remarked, calling for students to take responsibility for their own growth and the betterment of society. He concluded by stating that character and personality matter more than intelligence alone, urging students to focus on building a strong moral foundation alongside their career ambitions.
In a brief speech, Tinojongshi Chang, DC Dimapur, expressed gratitude to the pioneers who founded the Chang Students’ Union, emphasizing that their vision and efforts are the reason for celebrating the Silver Jubilee. He encouraged the students to always learn and understand their roots, stating that they are “the eyes and legs of their people.”
Tinojongshi urged students to focus on competitive examinations and to clearly define their goals. “Without struggle, we cannot achieve our goals,” he remarked, stressing the importance of hard work in the information and technology-driven world. He highlighted the value of human resources as the key to societal progress, while also warning that if character is destroyed, it takes time to rebuild.
He further reminded the students to never forget God and to remain rooted in their culture, as it forms their identity. Tinojongshi noted that education alone is insufficient without cultural knowledge and urged the students to remember the goals of the union and honor those who sacrificed to establish it, even though they may no longer be alive.
The Souvenir commemorating the Silver Jubilee was released by Er. Chingmak, Convenor of the Planning Committee, while Rev. Dr. Wongtochingmak, Pastor of CBCD, offered a dedicatory prayer.
As a mark of respect, a minute of silence was observed in honor of the founders and pioneers of the Chang Students’ Union, recognizing their contributions and sacrifices.
Other dignitaries, including C. Pongsu from Chang Students’ Conference (CWS) and C. Bendang, President of Chang Union Dimapur (CUD), delivered brief speeches. The CSUD Anthem was performed, with a solo presentation by Elvina Khangshou. Auchingsonla, President of CSUD, concluded the event with a vote of thanks.
