Kudecho Khamo and others during the Parents’ Day programme of Chakhesang Mission Higher Secondary School.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | November 14
Nagaland’s Advisor for CAWD & Taxes, Kudecho Khamo, today stressed the importance of skill-based education, stating that learning must go beyond reading and writing and prepare young people to become employers rather than employees.
He said this while addressing the Annual Parents’ Day programme of Chakhesang Mission Higher Secondary School (CMHSS), T Chikri Pfutsero, in Phek district.
Highlighting that the future belongs to entrepreneurs, he emphasised the need for schools to introduce clubs and short-term entrepreneurial skill-development programmes.
Khamo stated that education without morality, integrity and responsibility becomes dangerous and poses a threat not only to the department one serves, but also to society, the family and the church.
Despite technological advancement and financial freedom, he said that without honesty and health, wealth becomes parasitic. He added that honesty and sincerity passed down through generations continue to remain relevant and must be upheld.
Observing that the current educational environment has changed significantly from the past, he said rising demands require the collective responsibility of students and parents—particularly in the use of mobile phones, which he cautioned can corrupt the mind.
He noted that the changing educational landscape calls for collaborative efforts to maintain proper checks and balances and to recognise the crucial role of the school.
Reiterating his strong stand against lifting the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, 1989, Khamo said his experience has shown its significant impact on society. He called for stronger and more effective mechanisms to implement the Act.
According to him, blaming poor-quality liquor is merely an excuse, and lifting the Act does not guarantee better-quality products. He pointed to the generally poor quality of imported fruits, medicines and other commodities in Nagaland compared with other parts of the country.
Khamo also highlighted the Phek district mass cleanliness drive, informing that committees have been constituted with the district administration and civil society organisations for better implementation and to reward towns and colonies. In this regard, he called for wider public participation.
Addressing teachers, he said they are the backbone and nation builders who must be conscious of their dealings with students and imbibe Christian values and social responsibility. Without these, he cautioned, knowledge and degrees may become a threat to society.
He reiterated that education is not only about books, reading and writing but also encompasses morality, rationality and quality learning.
While noting that thousands are graduating and the number of highly qualified individuals is rising, he said a huge unemployment gap persists due to a mismatch between skills and job market demands. Without the right education, skills and competence, he said, many remain unemployed despite abundant opportunities.
He stressed that the present generation must be skilled beyond their degrees and encouraged students to think of becoming employers rather than only aspiring to be employees. He further emphasised the need for entrepreneurial exposure in schools and suggested starting a Commerce stream in the institution.
Khamo observed that Pfutsero residents are known to be hardworking and diligent, and he urged the public to uphold these good traits. He also highlighted the Chakhesang culture of respecting and honouring women and called for renewed efforts to protect and uphold this value.
Encouraging the students, he urged them to have vision, think big, think positive, pray, have faith in God, work hard and strive towards their goals rather than merely dream.
On the occasion, the Employee Professional Development Fund (EDPF) was inaugurated. The launching programme was presided over by Rukuzo Ruho, Chairman of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA).
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Thujongoyi Dazo. The programme began with an invocation by Rev Dr Chekrovei Cho-o, Executive Secretary, CBCC. A speech on behalf of the parents was delivered by Esther Puro. The vote of thanks was proposed by Rev Dr Kowepe Kanuo, Chairman of the School Managing Board.
