Naga Students’ Federation felicitates Naga toppers in HSLC, HSSLC exams 2025

KOHIMA — The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) on Friday organised a felicitation programme for Naga toppers in HSLC and HSSLC exams 2025 at the SIRD Auditorium, Kohima.

Addressing the programme, Minister of Rural Development (RD) and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir, appreciated the NSF for the initiative in felicitating the students. He expressed delight at seeing young leaders rising among the Nagas and congratulated the toppers as well as all the successful candidates who appeared in the exams.

Commending the students for their dedication and perseverance, Jamir expressed gratitude to God for blessing Nagaland with “wonderful children” who will contribute to the state's development and prosperity.

He congratulated the toppers, acknowledging their hard work and sacrifices, but reminded the gathering that success is ultimately determined by divine will.

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The minister said, “Every student is special in God’s eyes,” and added, “Human beings may attempt, but it is God who dispenses. It’s not about someone being less intelligent or capable—each of us is blessed differently.”

While recognising the achievers, Jamir also encouraged them to remember and pray for those who were not felicitated but had worked equally hard, saying that their time, too, would come. He urged the toppers to remain humble and thankful for the blessings they had received.

Urging students to remain grounded and prayerful, Jamir reminded the gathering that the journey had only begun for the achievers. He also stressed the importance of divine guidance in navigating life’s challenges and acknowledged the crucial role played by parents and teachers in shaping the students’ success.

“This is not just a milestone; it is a stepping stone,” he said, adding that the path ahead would be filled with challenges that require focus and perseverance.

Jamir also commended the NSF for its efforts in fostering unity among Nagas and promoting equal opportunities for youth. He acknowledged the federation’s role in pushing for reforms in recruitment processes, ensuring fairness and inclusivity regardless of background.

Dr. Villo Naleo, Secretary of Social Concerns at the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), in his speech, emphasised the meaning of excellence, asserting that excellence is not a one-time achievement, but a continuous commitment to personal growth and self-discipline.

Dr. Naleo also underscored the importance of having a growth mindset to embrace opportunities, along with the virtues of humility and lifelong learning beyond one’s comfort zone. He also offered a special prayer for the toppers and their parents.

Earlier, delivering the presidential address, Medovi Rhi congratulated the students for excelling in their examinations while appreciating the role of parents in their success.

He advised the students to remain humble amidst success, asserting that “the higher we are placed, the more humbly we should walk,” while urging the students to put God first.

Rhi emphasised the importance of perseverance, resilience, and innovation in navigating modern challenges. He reminded students that their journey extends beyond academic success, calling on them to contribute meaningfully to the collective uplift of Naga society.

He stressed that students are not only recipients of knowledge but stewards of change — key to shaping a united and progressive future. He urged them to uphold the core Naga values of resilience, unity, and service.

Additionally, Rhi encouraged the youth to carry forward the legacy of their people and work towards a future where the identity and glory of the Nagas continue to shine.

A speech on behalf of the toppers was delivered by Lungyihangle Nring, Rank No. 1 HSLC 2025. On the occasion, 89 HSLC and 25 HSSLC Naga toppers were felicitated.

The programme was led by Kenilo Kent, Assistant General Secretary, NSF, and the vote of thanks tendered by Mteisuding, Vice President, NSF.