Our Correspondent
Kohima, Aug. 22 (EMN): Nagaland stands on the launch pad of significant change and development, said Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi while reminding the youths that they have a vital responsibility towards enhancing the progress of the "hugely beautiful and resourceful state".
He was speaking during the 32nd Graduation Day of St. Joseph's College (Autonomous) Jakhama on Monday.
"You belong to a generation that has all the advantages of modern education, access to technical resources equipped with vast knowledge, skills and vision to make Nagaland advance in every way," Mukhi said.
Congratulating the faculty, administrative team, parents and the graduating students from the college, the governor expressed happiness to see a batch of promising youngsters armed with knowledge and skills "who are ready to accomplish their dreams".
Maintaining that St. Joseph's College holds the distinction of being the largest college in Nagaland ever since its inception in 1985, he said it was remarkable to know that the institution, which has been accredited with Grade A by the NAAC in 2016, has also emerged as one of the top autonomous colleges in the Northeast. He also commended the college for "leaving an indelible mark in the legacy of education in Nagaland."
Regardless of the fields the students step into, the governor said, they are helping in the nation building. "Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life," he added.
However, he cautioned them not to fall prey to the "toxic expectations of society" but rather, take pride in their dreams and aspirations.
While emphasising on the importance of taking up entrepreneurship and becoming job providers rather than job seekers, he lamented students prepared to work in government sector on contractual basis even after completing post-graduation from universities.
While advising students to try their hands at start-ups and look for innovative ways to make their presence felt, Mukhi also recommended taking up farming as a profession at their own lands after getting education. "With the utilisation of scientific data and technology, you can improve crop yields and catapult the state’s development in robust growth trajectory and improve the entrepreneurial landscape of our state," he said.
Sharing that he was impressed to see the state thriving in tourism and hospitality, entrepreneurship, athletics, entertainment among other areas, he said it is a proof of Naga society’s ‘rapid progress’.
‘The future of any country depends on its students. A country's name and fame rest on the educated youth. Students are the real treasure of any country,’ he said.
“As you prepare to face life ahead, be proud of your identity and never lose your work ethics. Cherish the values of your forefathers, chase your dreams wholeheartedly and accept success and failures with grace," Mukhi said while wishing them success in their future endeavours.
Dr. Fr. George Keduolhou Angami, Principal of St. Joseph's College, told the students to be confident, embrace new challenges and opportunities and not look back while moving on to soar high.
Dr. Mhonthung Yanthan, assistant professor and head of Political Science, reminded the outgoing students to put in effort to succeed, keep their environment clean, lead an honest life, be the lamp of knowledge and contribute towards realising the vision of a better, developed and corruption-free Nagaland.
A total of 1295 undergraduate and 102 postgraduate students graduated from the college this year.