The United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC), the apex Sangtam student body began its Platinum Jubilee celebration yesterday at Longkhim Town, Tuensang. Themed “Honor the past, Ignite the future”, the celebration will continue till December 17.
“Education is a lifelong process and one should learn everyday likewise. Everyday is a day of learning,” said Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio who graced the occasion on the second day. Rio congratulated the USSC for completing the 75 year milestone and wished them the best in the coming years.
In his address, Rio emphasized on the essence of unity of the Nagas and encouraged the gathering to uphold the unique diversity and unity of all Nagas.
“To see success in life and society one should learn how to work together hand in hand, hearts to hearts for there is more joy in togetherness,” remarked Rio. Drawing attention to the motto of USSC “Unity is strength”, the CM exuded the need for cohesion. “ Taking this time we should also be grateful to the pioneers whose vision and sweat have brought us (People) this far,” added Rio.
Everyone should look forward and upward not regretting the past failures but being hopeful and tirelessly working for better tomorrow.
In his speech, Rio also acknowledged the Sangtam community stating that the tribe has been a guiding light among the Eastern tribes, appreciating their hardwork and dedication in the field of education and other sectors. “I hope that the Sangtams will continue to be a beacon of light for the Eastern and Naga society,” said Rio.
To the students, Rio encouraged, “You are an influencers to society. Therefore one should continue to uphold one’s integrity with selflessness and honesty.”
“Education is the top priority of the state government and my government is trying its best to improve the quality of education. However, it will not be possible without everyone giving a hand,” asserted Rio, informing that there are 1,939 government schools and 745 private schools in Nagaland. Further, Nagaland comprises of about 1,66, 000 students in government schools and 2,70,000 in private schools. “Yet there are huge gaps in the result. One cannot blame the government department alone for the poor performance of government schools as Education is everyone’s responsibility,” said Rio.
Although, Nagaland have a better literacy rate compared to the national literacy, the Chief Minister expressed that the quality of education system in the state needs good competition and improvement in many spheres.
