District Level Youth Festival held in Zunheboto

DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 19 (MExN): The District Level Youth Festival 2024 was celebrated at Town Hall, Zunheboto, on September 19, organized by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports (YRS), Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with DHEW, SAKHI-One Stop Centre, and DAPCU. The festival, themed "Innovation in Science and Technology," aimed to provide a platform for young minds to showcase their talents and creativity.

In the first session, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Zunheboto, Keyirangding Hegui, addressed the gathering as the special guest speaker. He highlighted the abundance of natural resources in the state, the district's favorable climate, and the fertile soil, encouraging the youth to appreciate these blessings and utilize them innovatively with the aid of modern technology and scientific management. “There are no boundaries for innovation,” he added, urging the participants to think creatively and contribute to the community's progress.

Hegui commended the efforts of the YRS department for organizing the event and providing a platform for young talents in the fields of science and technology. He also praised the participants for their performances and wished them success in the upcoming state-level events.

In her welcome address, Youth Resources Officer (YRO) Atoli Yeptho emphasized that the festival was modeled on the national level, aiming to prepare the youth of Nagaland for national platforms by providing them with equal opportunities. She informed that the winners of the district-level competitions would advance to the state-level events.

The competition session saw Lino Kiba of Bloomfield High School win the first place in the Declamation contest, followed by Shudhanshu from Olympic Higher Secondary School in second place. In the Science Mela, Nighakivi Sumi and Imnameren Ozüküm of Olympic Higher Secondary School secured the top spot, while Lighi K. Awomi of Seven Homes School finished as the runner-up. In the painting competition, Onilo N. Zhimo of Corner Stone Higher Secondary School claimed first place, with Vikivi H. Zhimo of Bloomfield School securing the second spot.

The festival also featured various cultural performances, including folk songs and dances by the youth and a special presentation by Kiviti Muru. Additionally, the event included activities conducted by DHEW-BBBP to raise awareness on the safety and security of women in the district. The program addressed gender-related issues, promoting women leaders, economic empowerment of women, and the importance of educating and ensuring the safety and security of women and girls.

The event concluded with an appreciation of the participants and encouragement for them to continue excelling in their respective fields.