Advisor of Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, says hard work is the only sure path to a success.
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DIMAPUR — Advisor of Industries and Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, underscored that hard work remains the only sure path to a successful life, and that when educated youth describe themselves as jobless, it often reflects an attitude of laziness.
The advisor was addressing the closing session of the 52nd biennial general conference of the All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) as guest of honour on Friday at Satoi town, Zunheboto.
Jakhalu stressed that there are numerous avenues to explore and that, with sincere commitment, dedication and hard work, young people can build meaningful and successful careers.
“The government cannot feed every individual,” she said, urging Naga youth to focus on private sector and entrepreneurship. She encouraged them to identify new avenues, start enterprises and become job creators rather than job seekers.
She also highlighted the long-pending Naga political solution as a major factor hampering the state’s overall development.
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Jakhalu pointed out that multiple taxation and the presence of several groups of “national workers” have become an additional burden on the people, particularly the youth, contributing to an alarming rate of unemployment. Terming this a serious concern, she called upon all stakeholders to unite for peace, development and prosperity and to secure the future of Naga youth.
Pointing to emerging opportunities beyond the state and the country, the advisor said that in India and abroad there are many avenues where Naga youth can contribute and thrive.
“Many countries need manpower, and our youth must be ready to step out, learn and compete,” she said.
She went on to state that young people should not simply blame the government but must also explore opportunities outside and not depend solely on state support.
Informing the gathering of new initiatives, Jakhalu stated that the Government of Nagaland has signed an MoU with the Government of Japan to enable Naga youth to gain exposure and work experience abroad and to facilitate job placements.
She further informed that Japanese language has been introduced in Nagaland University so that Naga youth can equip themselves linguistically and access employment opportunities in different countries.
Emphasising the rapid advancement of technology, Jakhalu said that “we are now in the age of artificial intelligence,” and urged students to take advantage of technological progress.
She called on the youth to undergo training, acquire new skills and remain competitive alongside the rest of the Naga community and the wider global workforce.
Dr. Hutton Sümi, Pastor of Sümi Baptist Church Zunheboto, the guest speaker of the morning service, emphasised that acquiring education alone is insufficient in the present era of rapid technological advancement and societal change.
“We must excel on our merits to compete effectively,” he said and urged the youth to revive and restore the legacy of the Sümi tribe, exemplified by the integrity, simplicity, and courage of their elders and pioneers who spoke the truth boldly.
Reflecting on the Israelites' success through a strong work culture, Dr. Sümi called on the Sümi people to cultivate the same diligent work ethic for prosperity.
He stressed putting God first: “Let God drive our people so we can become a chosen tribe, living as a progressive community.”
Dr. Sümi also highlighted the vital role of the Sütsa language, warning, “If we lose our Sumi language, we lose our tribal identity.” He advocated practicing Sütsa alongside English-medium education.
Challenging the students, he asked them to self-reflect: "Where have we created gaps and lags in progress? We must question ourselves, gain a clear vision, and maintain sharp focus.”
The closing ceremony featured a vibrant performance by musical bands, including District Band Zunheboto (DBZ) and Sümi Music Forum. The new office bearers of the All Sumi Students' Union (SKK) for the 2026–2028 tenure will be led by Hipito Achumi as president and P Samuel Chophy as general secretary.