Kangzang Zeliang Shares Essentials for Tech Careers

DIMAPUR — Drawn to anything technical despite coming from an arts background, Kangzang Zeliang, founder and CEO of Zeliang Codetech Pvt. Ltd, enjoyed carpentry and painting activities as a child—experiences that shaped his ability to think creatively and critically. Though he may not hold celebrated academic degrees, he has always believed in learning by doing and thinking outside the box.

In 2014, he founded BCSS Construction & Solutions, where he leads a team of architects, engineers, and designers with a focus on bringing the right people together to build impactful solutions. In 2022, he began a new chapter by founding Zeliang Codetech Pvt. Ltd., a tech company committed to solving real-world problems using AI, IoT, mechatronics, and software.

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Despite growing up without internet access, he sees the digital era as an opportunity to empower others in Nagaland by creating platforms for innovation and growth.

In this interview with Eastern Mirror, Kangzang explains coding and software development, shares practical resources for beginners, discusses local opportunities for young coders, and offers advice to students in Nagaland on building skills and careers.

How would you explain “coding” and “software development” to a young student in Nagaland?

Coding is the language we use to give instructions to computers. It is the core process to build apps, websites, and smart devices. Software development is the full process of building these tools, from planning and coding to testing and improving them. For students in Nagaland, it’s a powerful way to solve real problems and create impact locally and globally.

If a student has never written a single line of code, what’s the first step they should take?

Start with curiosity. Begin by watching YouTube videos on how apps or games are made. Then try free block-based platforms like Scratch (for kids) or Code.org. Block-based coding can help kids understand the logic behind building a functionality for a feature. Once you're ready, move on to text-based coding like Python using beginner-friendly platforms like SoloLearn or W3Schools.

Are there any free or low-cost resources you recommend for beginners in Nagaland?

Yes, plenty. Platforms like Coursera, freeCodeCamp, Be10X, and YouTube channels like “Programming with Mosh” are great. Locally, we are also building bootcamps at Zeliang Codetech tailored for Nagaland students.

What subjects in school (Maths, Science, etc.) best prepare a student for coding?

Of course, Maths and Science build the logic and problem-solving skills needed for coding, but every subject has value. Language improves communication, art boosts creativity, and subjects like history and economics help with structure and real-world thinking. Coding needs both logic and creativity. So, all subjects play a role. Like, there are always perks to having more information and knowledge. In short, Maths and Science are the core tools, but other subjects teach you where and how to apply those tools creatively and meaningfully.

Should students pursue a college degree in Computer Science, or can certifications and bootcamps be enough?

Both paths are valid. A college degree opens foundational understanding and networking opportunities. But many successful coders today are self-taught with bootcamps and certifications. What matters is your skill, not just the degree.

What types of projects should students build to showcase their skills?

Start simple! Create a personal portfolio website, a calculator app, or a to-do list. As you grow, build community-impacting apps like local weather notifiers, waste management apps, or charity apps.

Do hackathons or coding competitions make a significant difference for a beginner’s portfolio?

Yes. They show initiative, team collaboration, and your ability to solve problems under pressure. These are highly valued by recruiters and also help in networking.

What entry-level roles are available for young coders in Nagaland and beyond?

Roles like junior developer, web designer, tech support, content manager, and digital marketing analyst are growing. Freelance work and internships through platforms like Internshala or LinkedIn are also great starting points.

How do remote work and freelancing fit into the career path of a coder from a smaller region?

They’re a game-changer. Remote work erases geographical limits. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Turing.com allow you to work for global clients right from Nagaland.

What entrepreneurial opportunities exist for coders in Nagaland’s local economy?

There’s a huge potential in Nagaland. Build e-commerce solutions for local businesses, create tourism apps, and build digital payment solutions and smart agriculture and healthcare systems. We’re actively developing such local solutions at Zeliang Codetech.

How is artificial intelligence changing the kind of work your company does?

AI is helping us automate tasks, personalise user experiences, and predict trends. We're integrating AI in healthcare, smart education, and local language preservation.

What roles or jobs related to AI do you see growing the fastest?

AI/ML engineers, data analysts, prompt engineers, and AI-assisted content creators. Even non-coders can contribute through design, voice training, and AI testing.

How can students keep their skills up-to-date in a rapidly evolving tech environment?

Stay curious and never stop learning. Follow tech blogs, take online courses regularly, and practise daily. Join tech communities like GitHub, StackOverflow, or Zeliang Codetech’s bootcamps.

What final piece of advice would you give a student in Nagaland dreaming of a global tech career?

Start small but think big. Your location doesn’t limit your potential. The world is looking for problem solvers. Be consistent, keep learning, and surround yourself with people who are smarter than you, who challenge you to grow.

RAPID INSIGHTS

What’s your favourite childhood video game?

As a child, I never got the privilege to play a video game. But now I encourage my son to build them for others to play.

Laptop or desktop – what’s your coding rig?

Laptop with dual monitor setup for multitasking.

Favourite movie or TV show?

TV Show: Silicon Valley – it’s funny but also inspiring if you're in tech.

Movie: The Hustlers – a real-inspired entrepreneurial tale, blending drama with the spirit of innovation, and is perfect for anyone curious about startups or looking for motivational stories.