International Youth Day was observed across Nagaland with youth, charity and HIV&AIDS awareness programmes.
DIMAPUR/KOHIMA — International Youth Day 2026 was observed in Kohima, Mon, Phek, Longleng and Mokokchung on Wednesday, with programmes focusing on youth participation, HIV&AIDS awareness and the launch of intensified Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns.
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According to updates, the programmes were held on the theme “Different contexts, common aspirations”.
Kohima: Kohima-based youth-led initiative AfterClass organised a charity event for people affected by the recent disaster in Mon district. AfterClass hosted the charity event at Eco Park, Kohima, featuring activities such as live painting, live concerts, stalls and photo booths.
The organisers stated that AfterClass is a group consisting of six students and that the event was organised as a charity initiative while providing opportunities for students.
They said the event was organised on International Youth Day to give students opportunities to learn, grow and explore their skills in art and music.
Around 15 participants took part in the art competition during the art fest, while a music fest was also held in the evening.
They said a portion of the profits and donations collected through donation boxes would be sent to people affected in Mon.
For the live painting and poster-making competition, there was one category for poster making for classes 9 to 12. The live painting competition had two categories, junior for classes 10 to 12 and senior for college students.
Nunese Sale, Class 1 Contractor and proprietor of Nune's Construction, who attended the programme as the special guest, expressed appreciation to the participants for coming together for a cause to help people affected by the recent disasters in the Mon district. He said they should not wait for the government to take action.
He encouraged the youth of Nagaland to stand firm, be bold and have the courage to take steps for a cause greater than themselves, stating that the event was a humanitarian example which people would see in the days to come.
Sale said it was the responsibility of every concerned Naga to support people in Mon who are suffering. He also appreciated the organising committee and participants for stepping out of their comfort zones.
Meanwhile, the Kohima District Integrated Strategy for HIV&AIDS (DISHA), in collaboration with Oriental College, observed the day along with the launch of the District Intensified IEC Campaign 2026 at Oriental College.
The programme began with a bike rally-cum-walkathon involving students of the college to create awareness on HIV prevention, healthy lifestyles, stigma reduction and youth participation. It was followed by the main programme attended by students, faculty members, officials and DISHA representatives.
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Mon: In Mon, DISHA, in collaboration with the Red Ribbon Club of Wangkhao Government College, observed the day and launched an Intensified IEC Campaign at the college auditorium.
The programme, supported by the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), focused on HIV&AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Longyim Tzudir, District Program Officer, DISHA, called on young people to participate in addressing community challenges and contribute to HIV prevention, awareness and access to treatment.
Dr. Supongmenla Walling, Chief Medical Officer, Mon, launched the Intensified IEC Campaign and said young people across different circumstances share aspirations for dignity, opportunities, participation, quality education, appropriate employment and a sustainable future.
Phek: In Phek, DISHA organised the observance at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), sponsored by NSACS. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Thejakhrienuo Nisa attended the programme and called on young people to actively participate in activities, focus on their studies and contribute collectively towards strengthening society.
Nisa also launched the third round of the IEC campaign on HIV&AIDS and flagged off a motorbike rally to create awareness on HIV&AIDS and STIs.
Phek Town Chakhesang Students’ Union President Vezovo encouraged young people to explore career opportunities across different sectors rather than depend solely on government jobs. Kuduvo Kezo, District Program Officer, DISHA, delivered the keynote address.
Longleng: In Longleng, International Youth Day and the launch of the Intensified IEC Campaign 2026 were held at Yingli College. Dr. Temsusashi, District AIDS Control Officer, Longleng, delivered the keynote address and encouraged young people to make informed choices, take responsibility for their health and contribute to their communities.
Lochumbeni P Shitiri, Assistant Professor-cum-RRC Co-ordinator, Yingli College, spoke on youth participation in health awareness and the role of the Red Ribbon Club in HIV&AIDS prevention and responsible health practices.
Pangjungtoshi, ICTC Counsellor, District Hospital, Longleng, conducted a session on HIV&AIDS transmission and preventive measures. The campaign was later flagged off by Dr. T Temsu Imti, Principal of Yingli College, followed by a screening session.
Mokokchung: In Mokokchung, Jubilee Memorial College, in collaboration with DISHA and the college's Red Ribbon Club, observed the day at the college campus.
Kewimesin Nriame, Extra Assistant Commissioner of Mokokchung, encouraged students to make a positive impact on society, maintain a good and ambitious circle of friends, use social media wisely and pursue their personal aspirations. She also encouraged young people to promote local arts and crafts to remain connected to their roots.