Rupin Sharma urges students to value virtues and lifelong learning

DIMAPUR — Unity College, Dimapur, celebrated its 19th freshers’-cum-annual day on Saturday at the college premises with the Director General of Police (DGP), Nagaland, Rupin Sharma, as the chief guest.

Sharma, recalling his own student days nearly 35 years ago, emphasised that good traditions must be preserved and carried forward, stating that education is not just about knowledge or prosperity but about becoming better human beings with virtues and values.

According to a DIPR report, highlighting the importance of continuous learning, the DGP encouraged students to remain inquisitive and not shy away from asking questions. He noted that seeking clarification is not a sign of weakness but a mark of leadership, as it helps both the individual and peers. At the same time, he appealed to teachers to create an environment where students feel free to ask questions without fear.

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Drawing from his own experiences as a student, Sharma shared anecdotes on perseverance, humility, and the role of both success and failure in shaping one’s future. He urged students to think beyond traditional paths of employment and explore innovative ways of generating income, including part-time jobs, digital platforms, and entrepreneurship.

Touching upon emerging technologies, he advised students to adapt to changes such as artificial intelligence (AI), which he described as a major force shaping future careers. Traditional jobs may not exist in the next 10–20 years.

He also spoke strongly against the menace of drug abuse, appealing to students to report cases of substance use among peers to parents or authorities. “True friendship means saving a life. Hiding the problem only leads to disaster,” he warned, while also urging educational institutions to create support systems for early intervention.

He further reminded the gathering about the unique cultural and linguistic diversity of Dimapur, calling it “a great crucible for learning” where students have the opportunity to appreciate and celebrate differences while fostering unity.

Sharma encouraged students to become global citizens, open to new ideas and opportunities, while staying rooted in values. He said that if even one student could take away a positive message and apply it in life, his purpose of addressing the gathering would be fulfilled.

He also released the college journal and magazine and felicitated the Nagaland University subject toppers from the college.