SC Jamir urges Naga youth to embrace knowledge economy

MOKOKCHUNG — Former Chief Minister of Nagaland and ex-Governor SC Jamir on Saturday urged the youth to seize opportunities in the global knowledge economy and transform Nagaland into a knowledge-based society.

Jamir was addressing the Ongpangkong Kaketshir Mungdang (OKM) Dr. SC Jamir Meritorious Award ceremony, held at Mokokchung town hall where two achievers — Moamenla B Kichu (HSLC 2025 top 9) and Moasanen Pongen (HSLC 2025 top 2) received the awards.

Jamir highlighted the urgent need for a transformative shift in the 21st century toward a knowledge-based society, where economic growth and job creation hinge on technological innovation, research, and creative ideas rather than rote learning or natural resources.

"The world has moved from a state where natural resources define power to one where knowledge is power," he asserted.

Highlighting the role of technology-computers, smartphones, and the internet in making the world smaller, more connected, and opportunity-rich, the veteran politician urged the youth to empower themselves with knowledge to compete globally.

Also read: Nagaland not ready for industrialisation, says former Chief Secretary

“No country can survive in isolation. Your vision must encompass Nagaland and the world as one,” he added.

Reflecting on Nagaland’s challenges, Jamir painted a sobering picture, describing the state as “mortally wounded” by internal divisions, dishonesty, and a lack of vision.

“Nagaland is like a blind state, where we pull down good people because dishonesty pervades from top to bottom,” he lamented.

He criticised the absence of truth even among religious leaders and warned of a “rudderless political movement” plagued by unseen forces that hinder progress.

“The biggest famine in Nagaland is dishonesty,” he said, and urged for an urgent need for a moral and intellectual awakening.

Jamir placed the onus on the Ao community, particularly Ongpangkong, to lead Nagaland toward a knowledge-driven future.

“If Ongpangkong does not spearhead this transformation, our Naga future is doomed,” he cautioned, urging the community to guide the state out of its “chronic state of affairs” and into a nation of wisdom and innovation.

He called for a collective effort to reject the status quo and forge a brighter future, emphasising that the youth’s inborn courage and determination can surmount current predicaments.

The former CM also stressed the importance of a shared vision for Nagaland, warning against dwelling on historical divisions that foster disunity.

“It’s important to know our history, but dwelling too deeply creates misunderstanding and foolishness,” he said. Instead, he advocated for a forward-looking approach, where education focuses on innovation and global competitiveness rather than outdated systems.

“The world is striving for excellence in every sphere. Nagaland’s youth must be enablers of this knowledge economy,” he urged.

Jamir challenged OKM leaders to create platforms for young Nagas to thrive in this competitive, technology-driven era.

“What you do today must serve future generations,” he said, emphasizing the responsibility to provide opportunities for the youth to excel. He envisioned a Nagaland where young minds are equipped to march hand-in-hand with the global community, leveraging knowledge to drive economic and social progress.

He congratulated the recipients for their determination and dedication, marking their achievements as a stepping stone to greater heights.

“This is just the beginning of your academic journey. With the same spirit, aim for nobler objectives to build our beautiful Nagaland,” he said, encouraging all Naga youth to emulate the awardees’ pursuit of excellence.

The programme featured short speeches by Tongpangmanyang Kichu, President of OKM; Alemtoshi Imsong, President of Ongpangkong Mungdang; and Senti Walling, Convener of the Dr. SC Jamir Meritorious Award Committee, and acceptance speeches from the awardees.