Tokavi Achumi, NPS, Commandant, 8th NAP Battalion, Naltoqa, Zunheboto, addressed students on January 9 during the 40th Zunheboto Range Students’ Union (ZRSU) General Conference held at Yezami Village. He emphasised that education is not confined to classrooms or urban areas, but is a powerful tool to bring about positive change in society. He noted that today’s students have access to skills and exposure that earlier generations did not, and pointed out that many in the past did not even have the opportunity to be recognised as students.
He reminded the gathering that students today have been provided with a platform and are strategically placed for meaningful roles in society. Stating that everyone is born with a purpose, he highlighted the resilience and capabilities of rural youth. He stressed that character matters more than talent, as it takes a person further in life.
While degrees may open doors, he said, character is what keeps those doors open. Respect, he added, builds strong and lasting relationships. Achumi urged people not to forget their roots, but to work towards improving the education system and creating employment opportunities. Highlighting the importance of students’ unions, he said their role is crucial in creating a friendly, inclusive and supportive environment. He encouraged students to build success that also helps others, stating that success should not be limited to personal gain but must be shared with society.
Calling on students to maintain integrity, he advised them to be honest with themselves, listen to the advice of elders and remain open to learning. He said honesty, humility and a willingness to try are qualities that eventually shape good leaders. Referring to modern challenges, Achumi described mobile phones as “the world in our hands” and clarified that he was not against games, videos or social interaction. Instead, he urged students to use technology wisely by dedicating at least one hour a day to learning something positive that would help shape their future. He encouraged them to read the news, stay informed about current affairs and understand developments at the state, national and global levels.
He pointed out that setting aside even one hour a day amounts to a meaningful investment in one’s future over weeks and months. He further challenged students to build success that blesses others, saying that personal progress should become a pathway for community progress. He reminded them that success is a blessing from God and should be returned to society, villages and communities through service and integrity.
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Achumi said that while people often speak about corruption and inequality, real change depends on the present generation. He urged students to stop blaming others and instead take responsibility for bringing positive change. He emphasised the importance of obeying parents, respecting elders and learning from their guidance.
Citing examples of great leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Napoleon Bonaparte, he said they emerged from difficult circumstances but succeeded through determination and perseverance. He reminded students that success depends on individual capacity and determination, not solely on governments, institutions or circumstances.
Encouraging resilience, Achumi said failure should not discourage students, as real character is revealed in how one rises after falling. He added that regardless of position or rank, individuals who remain sincere and hardworking will shine and earn respect.
Concluding his address, he thanked the ZRSU for the opportunity and congratulated the students for successfully completing the four-day programme. He expressed confidence that they would return home as more enlightened individuals, carrying positive memories and renewed determination. He wished them success in their careers and urged them to believe in themselves, remain persistent and never give up.
Earlier in the programme, the session was chaired by Alokito K Kiba, with an invocation prayer offered by Vishito Zhimo, Pastor, Hekiye Baptist Church. Special performances were presented by the Shotomi Students’ Union and the Lizu Naghuto Students’ Union.
A short address for the 41st ZRSU General Conference was delivered by the Village Chief of Kawoto Village. The vote of thanks was proposed by Khenito Kiho, Tribunal, ZRSU, and the programme concluded with a benediction by Inoka Chophy, Pastor, Natha New Baptist Church.
