B Henok Buchem urged Baptist College freshers to pursue education with integrity and purpose.
KOHIMA — Deputy Commissioner of Kohima B Henok Buchem on Tuesday told students that "Degrees may open doors, but your character sustains how long those doors remain open," as he urged them to pursue education with integrity, purpose and compassion while preparing to become ethical leaders of the future.
Buchem was addressing the 44th freshers' programme of Baptist College, Kohima, held at Ura Academy Hall.
Congratulating the freshers on beginning a new phase of their lives, he said college education is more than acquiring academic qualifications, describing it is a lifelong journey of becoming.
He said every new beginning is accompanied by uncertainty and possibility, and encouraged students to embrace change with courage. Education, the DC said, should not be confined to textbooks, examinations and degrees but should shape not only what students know, but also who they become.
Highlighting the impact of rapid technological advancement, Buchem observed that in an era where artificial intelligence and search engines provide instant access to information, education is no longer about memorising facts.
Instead, he said, students must develop critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration and ethical decision-making skills.
"The future belongs not merely to those who possess knowledge, but to those who know how to apply knowledge ethically and compassionately," he said, encouraging students to remain curious and never stop asking questions.
Speaking on the importance of character, he said integrity, honesty, humility, discipline and compassion would define a person's reputation far more than academic scores. Referring to the Christian values upheld by Baptist College, he encouraged students to allow truth, compassion and service to guide their education.
He also urged the students to discover their purpose beyond career aspirations, saying education should ultimately contribute to the betterment of their families, communities, the state and the nation.
"Nagaland needs educated young people who will become ethical leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, teachers and administrators," he said, adding that success should be measured not only by income but also by the number of lives one positively impacts.
The deputy commissioner also pointed out the rapidly changing global landscape shaped by artificial intelligence, climate change, entrepreneurship and digital technologies.
He said many of the careers that today's students will eventually pursue do not yet exist, making adaptability and lifelong learning essential.
He advised students to prepare not merely for their first job but for continuous learning throughout their lives by remaining willing to learn, unlearn and relearn.
He encouraged the freshers to make five commitments: to pursue excellence rather than perfection; value integrity above popularity; respect every individual regardless of background; continue learning throughout life; and use their education to serve humanity.
Addressing the faculty members, Buchem acknowledged the lasting influence teachers have on students.
Recalling how a political science teacher inspired him to pursue civil service during his higher secondary years, he said even a few minutes of encouragement from a teacher can transform a student's future.
He advised students to choose their friends wisely, use social media responsibly and make decisions that add value to their lives.
"The future is not something you inherit; it is something you build," the DC said, expressing hope that the freshers would leave the institution not only with knowledge but also with wisdom, compassion and moral courage.
Dr. Kekuchol Pusa, Principal of Baptist College, Kohima, also addressed the gathering.
A welcome address was delivered by Thrunso K, president of the Student Council and a speech on behalf of the freshers was given by Donensangle, a first-semester BA student from the Department of English.