Third day of Lotha Students’ Union conference highlights culture and tradition.
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WOKHA — The third day of the 53rd general conference of the Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) was marked by cultural session in the morning and valedictory session in the evening at Old Changsu village, Wokha district.
The cultural session on the theme ‘Ignite the spirit of our youths through the richness of our culture,’ was attended by Mhathung Yanthan, Advisor for Agriculture, while Achumbemo Kikon, MLA, was the special guest of the valedictory session.
In his address, Advisor Yanthan commended the LSU leadership for prioritising culture and tradition during the conference and for their consistent efforts in promoting Lotha heritage.
He appreciated the inclusion of cultural performances from other states, noting that learning and respecting diverse traditions is vital for fostering mutual understanding and strengthening relations.
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Expressing concern over the gradual erosion of cultural values among the younger generation, Yanthan stressed the importance of preserving language, traditional attire, customs, folk songs and dances, which he described as the foundation of identity.
While acknowledging rapid changes in society, the advisor cautioned that progress should not come at the cost of forgetting one’s roots.
On contemporary challenges, he observed that technological advancements, climate change and evolving lifestyles impact all sectors, including agriculture and health.
Yanthan encouraged students to embrace modern tools such as artificial intelligence, smart classrooms, online and distance learning, while using technology responsibly and constructively.
He urged the student community to adopt ancestral traditions and values, emphasising their importance for the present generation's holistic growth.
Additionally, he addressed career concerns, pointing out that many students limit their aspirations to government jobs. While encouraging such ambitions, he urged them not to make government employment their sole objective, highlighting the need to explore opportunities beyond it.
He further called upon students to be creative and innovative, and to take advantage of skill development and training programmes provided by the government.
Concluding his address, Yanthan led the student congregation in pronouncing a pledge to promote, preserve, and practice the Lotha identity, language, and traditional practices, vowing to keep them alive through their commitment.
The cultural session featured yodelling, folk songs, folk dances and tug-of-war competitions.
In debate competition, Lolano Lotha secured first place, followed by Yanrowo Y Ezung in second place, while Erenthung Ezung and Sorenbeni T Odyuo shared third place.
In war cry competition, James Ennie clinched first position, Renchithung Kithan finished second, and Mhademo Ovung along with Chanbemo Ngullie jointly secured third position.
In folk dance competition, DLSU emerged champions, with LLRSU in second place and LMRSU in third.
In folk song competition, ERSU won first position, followed by NRSU and WCSU in second and third positions, respectively.
In tug-of-war (female) event, DLSU claimed the top spot, while ERSU finished second. In the male category, ERSU emerged winners, with WCSU as runners-up.
Earlier, prayers of blessing for the students were offered by Moyithung N Murry, senior pastor of New Riphyim Baptist Church.
Greetings were delivered by Mutsikhoyo Yhobu, secretary general of the North East Students’ Organisation (NESO), along with representatives from the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), who also presented a special performance on the occasion.