Longleng youth told to convert untapped potential for development

DIMAPUR — Expounding that people often fall into the habit of blaming the system or others for their quandary, the deputy commissioner (DC) of Longleng, W Manpai Phom, has called upon the students and youth to change their mindset and take action stating that Longleng district has untapped potential to improve its infrastructure and take the district forward.

He stated this during the a two-day career guidance seminar organised by the Phom Gazetted Officers’ Association (PGOA), in collaboration with the YouthNet and Phom Students’ Conference (PSC), at Phom Baptist Christian Association (PBCA) conference hall in Longleng town on October 10 and 11 on the theme “Embrace, evolve, succeed.”

“Often, we blame the system or our circumstances, but as young people, it is up to us to take responsibility and face challenges head-on. This career seminar is designed to guide you in understanding your responsibilities and how to pursue opportunities.

“While there are many opportunities out there, success depends on how adaptable and proactive you make the right choices,” Phom said.

He encouraged the students and youth to explore alternative paths such as entrepreneurship saying, “When we work as government employees, we primarily support our families. However, as entrepreneurs, we uplift society and create jobs for others,” stated an update from PGOA.

He also emphasised that with the right resources, Longleng district has the potential to improve its infrastructure and move district forward.

“As a district, we have untapped potential, but we often fall into the habit of blaming the system or others. The time has come for us to change that mindset and take action,” Phom added.

Addressing the current state of youth in the district, the DC also expressed concern and remarked that the focus should not be solely on government jobs as there is so much more that the youth can achieve.

Meanwhile, Phom has acknowledged YouthNet and the entire team for their incredible work in supporting the state and expressed confidence that the two-day seminar would greatly benefit the young people of Longleng district.

Stating that seminars of such kind are a valuable opportunity, the DC urged the participants not to take lightly as it would help them discover their potential and abilities.

The president of Phom Peoples’ Council (PPC), YB Angam, and the president of Phom Students’ Conference, Dape Phom, also spoke on the occasion.

The president of PGOA, Chidok Phom, delivered the welcome address in the programme chaired by T Longlang.

On October 10, Esther Angami, facilitator, spoke on the topic ‘Aspects of self-understanding: Interest, abilities and influencers,’ in the first session, while facilitator C Kongden, spoke on ‘Tools for self-understanding: SWOT analysis- multiple intelligence framework- personality test’ in the second session.

On October 11, facilitator Johilo Kath spoke on the topic ‘Understanding career development: Defining career job, description of education and skill development-growth and benefits,’ while facilitator Sutiba Sangtam spoke on ‘Career decision and higher education and career choice.’

A total of 119 students attended the career guidance seminar.