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Our Correspondent
Kisama, April 25 (EMN): A three-day 29th general conference of the Angami Students' Union (Asu) held on the theme "Reflections" concluded on Sunday evening at Naga Heritage Village Kisama in Kohima. The conference coincided with commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Kohima Sub-Division Students' Conference and golden jubilee of Asu.
Speaking at the valedictory session, Mmhonlumo Kikon, advisor of IT, Technology and NRE, said the 75 years of Kohima Sub Division Students' Conference and 50 years of Asu coincided with the centenary year of the publication of the book "The Angami Nagas" written by JH Button.
He stated that "Naga issue is the most important issue for all of us," adding the issue is a testament of the fact that "our leaders preserved our race and identity through that issue."
Kikon shared about AZ Phizo, who after submitting a letter to the Simon Commission, travelled extensively campaigning all over Naga areas. He said that Phizo conceptualised the unification of Naga identity and canvassed through the length and breadth of Naga area as a missionary for Nagas identity and politics.
He questioned whether the present generation would be able to produce those great leaders that Nagas have seen in history and said, "We need to contemplate not just providing political leadership but knowledge leaders from among us who will lead Nagas towards a better future."
He cited that perception is important as perception of oneself would determine what one future is and how one will lead the Nagas. "All must aspire to lead the Nagas towards a better future. Don’t leave it to the government, bureaucrats, village council alone," Kikon said.
"If you prioritise yesterday as history and remember it, please don’t forget tomorrow is within our grasp for us to build. Future of Naga society will be build upon your dreams and hopes," he said.
Earlier, Kethoser Aniu Kevichusa led the devotional service and urged the students to look to God and serve Him be it in a small or big way. He cited various heroes and heroines from the Bible who did secular jobs saying, “God has called us to serve Him for different purposes.” He called upon to ponder how one could serve the purpose of God being as businessman, administrator, farmer, educator, social worker etc.
Kevichusa, a devotional speaker, referred to the examples of King David who had served both God and his people in his own generation. “We need to find out the meaning of 'idea of service' and use it,” he said while reminding that “one must give service in humble submission.”
He reminded that the future generations should serve the purpose of God as their forefathers did lest they fail to serve Him. “We must recapture the "idea of service," Kevichusa reiterated adding, "Know your calling and your purpose because God has called each one of us to serve Him and His people.
During the service, Zhavi Kere, pastor of Kigwema Baptist Church, invoked God's blessings, while Viranu Ltu, Asu education secretary, read from the Scripture. Songs were presented by Phesama Students' Union and Kigwema Students' Union.
Meanwhile, a team of new Asu office bearers for the tenure 2021-23 was also elected led by Bisevi Nakhro.
Outgoing Asu president, Vizokho Zashumo, congratulated the newly elected team and shared his experiences during his three consecutive tenure, while the president elect also assured to work hard for the betterment of the students.
Dr. Kedozeto Punyü, president of Angami Gazetted Officers' Krotho, congratulated the Asu on celebrating its golden jubilee. He hoped that the conference would reflect upon the past achievements and pass it on to the future. He added that students are the greatest hope of the future and leaders of tomorrow.
The events were hosted by Southern Angami Students' Union (Sasu). The 30th biennial general conference would be hosted by Northern Angami Students' Union (Nasu) in 2023.