Iba ocet ya 68 buba Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) lokti senden “Süngsashidi” omen nung ajemdaker Khar yimdak amungdang adokba nüngo kaket nungi agitetba lir. Iba ya Aor tulurtem aser tashitemeteter den interview agiba mapang parnoki langzübatem lir. Yangi tagitsü onük tajung aika aketba ngua tazüngertem ajangzüktsü atema adoktsür.
- Can Mokokchung become the Educational Hub of the State?
~ Akok Walling, Retd. Principal
Yes. Mokokchung can be made the Educational Hub of the State of Nagaland. Geographically, Mokokchung is the most centrally located District in the State. People of Mokokchung know the value of education. That understanding is an essential ore to base the educational industry on. Climate and topography of the place is absolutely conducive and enchanting for outsiders to come and stay – both learners as well as quality teachers. Even otherwise, there is no dearth of manpower and know-how from among the locals now. Only, to make it happen, two essential requirements with which we can start working on it: (a) improvement of surface communication – within and with the outside world, (b) an urbane accommodative mind of the host community.
- How should a person prepare for competitive exams?
~ Imnalensa, IPS
S.P. Mon
Preparation is Subjective but if one were to prepare certain things are to be kept in
mind
- Planning well and choosing the subject carefully is very important.
- Time Management and scheduling a proper time for studies is essential.
- Strategize – looking at previous year’s questions and analyzing the pattern helps one prepare well.
- There is no substitute to handwork – don’t rely only on coaching classes
- Mental preparedness is very important, the mindset is also very important, the way one approaches an exam is also essential to ones success
- Make a study group if possible
~ Imkongla, IAS
Joint Secretary, Ministry of Women & Child Development, GoI
Preparations for any competitive examinations is based on the twin foundations of patience and
discipline. Adapting to a disciplined academic routine will result in optimal concentration of
knowledge whereas patience is the key to a stronger mental orientation.
- The Traditional way of pursuing education for a white collared job versus the present need and skill specialization in the job market. Comment.
~ Aotula T. Imchen, IPS
Dy. Commissioner of Police, Zone 2, Dimapur.
Since our kindergarten we have been taught the importance of staying in school. We have been told that if we go to school, get good grades and stay out of trouble, we will find a successful career. However, with the change of time what we are seeing today is a huge rise of unemployment. And deep down, many youths in today’s generation feel that there’s something “more” they can achieve in life, if only they knew how to do it.
Traditional education typically provides a lot of structure, discipline, rules and resources which provides for a lot to gain education, but we also find far too many who simply aren’t learning the valuable skills to build a successful career. Many students are graduating without understanding of math, reading, civics or economics. This isn’t discrediting traditional education but its high time we focus on building capacities for making each student competent for the job market.
Today the younger generation of Naga youth / students are more progressive in their outlook. They want to be equals with their counterparts in the rest of the world. It is worthwhile for us and specially the youth to take note of today’s reality of Nagaland vis-à-vis the pan India as well as the prevailing global scenario. We are seeing unprecedented progress, especially in ST. We are living in a Knowledge and Skill driven economy and so the need for skill development.
- Is there a need to enroll in a coaching centre while preparing for competitive exams?
~ Moatenla, IRS
Deputy Commissioner of Income Tax,
Mumbai
It depends on how motivated an individual is. Coaching class provides a sense of direction to a pedantic aspirant as it guides him/her to work smarter (in the absence of a constant Mentor/Guide). Having said that, it is not a necessity as it all comes to self-motivation. Solely attending coaching classes will be futile without hard work.
~ Aochuba, IFS
Director, Wild Life, Dimapur
There is no absolute need for an aspirant to join coaching centres if you are conversant with what the exam demands & how to go about with your preparation. However, need arises for the beginners who are not confident about how to begin with the preparation or who have opted for new optional which had not been part of his/her regular academic studies. Coach centres will help you to understand the subject matter better in a shorter time as ‘time’ is an important factor once you start your preparation. Every aspirant needs to come up with his/her road map for the success in the examination where the good coaching centre may help you in designing a better road map. However, it should not be confused that coaching centre may facilitate you in your preparation but ultimately the donkey’s job has to be done by you and you alone.
- Are there any other areas where Nagas can do ground breaking research in agri and allied sectors?
~ Dr. Imtisosang
There are various areas in Agri and Allied sector. We need to focus on our strength that mainland India doesn’t have, i.e. we have natural resources and good climate for high value crops such as mushrooms, exotic fruits… Bamboo is also one such thing… actually bamboo fabrics can be made in our land, which is a big business in China and Japan… it has not yet started in India.
Since our geographical area and topography doesn’t allow like mainland India, we need to focus on completely different crops which is suitable in such terrain.
Now demand for mushrooms is increasing in India due to taste, health and nutritional factors. Our land can produce mushrooms throughout the year and high valued mushrooms which cannot be grown in mainland India are due to various climatic and forest etc. All the high valued mushrooms are grown in wood log so if we use the resources judiciously and responsibly then we have good scope.
- What are your greatest strength in the road to success during the competitive exams?
~ Asangba Chuba IAS
“Discipline, Dedication and Determination” were the key factors while preparing for the exams. Besides this, I was blessed to have a very supportive environment of family and friends. Their prayers and constant encouragement made the road to success less difficult.
~ Nukshimatong, NCS
Extra Assistant Commissioner, Tamlu, Longleng
Passion, Hard work, Perseverance, Endurance, Sincerity, Unceasing prayer to God for his blessing and positive attitude.
- How long did you prepare for the competitive exams and what motivated you? How did you managed the time during the study?
~ Aotula T. Imchen, IPS
Dy. Commissioner of Police, Zone 2, Dimapur.
Single hearted, focused and prayerful preparation for the exam for about 2 years.
It was my goal and passion that motivated me every day.
I had goals which I wanted to achieve and a to do list which I worked out on a priority basis and tried managing my time accordingly.
~ Imokaba Jamir, IRS
Commissioner of Income Tax, Kolkata
Right from my school days, it had always been my aim to join the civil services. So besides academics, I started reading newspapers, weekly magazines and competitive exam related journals since my school days to improve my General Knowledge and to keep abreast with current affairs. In that sense, my preparations started early on but serious and concerted preparations started about a year before the Mains examination. My parents, sisters and brother were always a constant pillar of support and motivation. My close friends Angam and Limawati, we had the same aspirations, we studied and prepared together and we motivated each other. My hostel mates in Jubilee Hall, Delhi University, many of whom were also preparing for the civil services. Some of them had even qualified and were taking the exam again to improve their rankings. We would exchange notes, have group discussions and hold mock interviews etc. I was lucky to get an opportunity to be in such a conducive environment and it instilled in me a sense of courage and confidence.
Time management is of the essence when you are preparing for the civil services as the syllabus is very vast. During the initial days of my preparation, I would study around 8 – 10 hours a day according to a set routine and this went up to 15 – 16 hours as the Mains examination approached. It is very important to set a routine and stick to it no matter what and not get distracted.
- According to you, which is the best coaching centre in India?
~ Asangba Chuba IAS
Coaching is a personal choice and it is the environment which is more important for equipping oneself for the exams. I didn’t opt for any extensive coaching during my preparation and mostly depended on self study and sharing notes and discussions with friends. There are advantages as well as disadvantages while opting for coaching.
~ Moatenla, IRS
Deputy Commissioner of Income Tax
Mumbai
That is quite tough to narrow down. Most of the well established coaching centers have branches all over the country, which is quite accessible to people from all walks of life except for the costs. All coaching centers have come up with various competitive strategies, which would benefit the aspirants. In my opinion, Coachingcenters are optional, studying smart is not, for that reason it would be unjust for me to measure the quality of coaching centers against each other.
~ Imnalensa IPS
S.P. Mon
- For General Studies – Vajiram and Ravi, ALS, Sriram
- Sociology- Upendra’s IAS (URAS)
- Geography- Vajiram and Ravi
~ Imkongla, IAS
Joint Secretary, Ministry of Women & Child Development, GoI
There is no specific coaching centre I would like to point out as every centre specialises in someparticular academic stream. However, I would do like to mention that your study table should form the most suitable academic environment given one has the right guidance and resource.
~ Uniel, IPS
S.P. Zunheboto
It’s been some years since I have left the coaching scene. Coaching institutes differ as per subjects, however, in my time Vaji Ram, Delhi was very popular and successful.
~ Aochuba, IFS
Director, Wild Life, Dimapur
Every coaching centre is specialised in certain area. Some are good in General Studies and some are specialised in Optional Papers. Therefore, it is important to make a proper assessment of the credibility of the Coach Centre before hand from friends & seniors and also attend workshops conducted by those coaching centres to have a better understanding before making a conscious decision which will enable you to pick the right centre to guide you better.
- What are the alternate options available for dropouts? Suggest some measures the Govt. should take up to accommodate these students.
~ Uniel, IPS
S.P. Zunheboto
The best judge for gauging available alternative career options is the individual himself as he is the repository of his own skills and talents. The Government has undertaken schemes like the National Skills Development Programme to facilitate growth and development of vocational skills for alternate career options.
- Academic results and the quality of students in Government schools are comparatively inferior to that of private schools in spite of the former having more qualified and experienced teachers. Why?
~ Akok Walling, Retd. Principal
The reasons for the poor performance of and in, govt. schools are varied in many. Major ones are presented here. They are connected. None is exclusively responsible for the poor show of the institutions in question. All are causes and effects of the other. It’s a vicious circle. In view of the prescribed length of answers the response is presented in the form of a diagram only. This calls for elaboration and discussion. Hope readers will be able to decipher.
- How will the youth of today overcome the pressure of securing Government jobs only from the parents and society?
~ Dr.Imlinichet
Asstt. Professor, Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung
A simple way to overcome any type of pressure is to remain focused, no matter what. Now, first try and discover what you are passionate about and what you are genuinely interested in doing. Then devote sufficient time and resources to enhance that aspect of your life. Modify your motto/objective in life into something like “I want to be successful by doing what I am passionate about”, because “Success” is a good solvent of pressure.
~ Lipokjungla Ozukum
Co-Founder Ilandlo
“It’s the elders and the society who should first get out of the box and understand that holding a government job is not the ultimate measure of success as this makes us feel insecure about our capabilities. We just need to believe in ourselves, our abilities and passion, know what we want to achieve and move towards that goal to finally prove that we can have the financial security while enjoying the freedom of doing what we love to do. By then, the pressure subsides with due respect. “
~ Tia Mollier
Asstt. Professor, Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung
They can’t, unless they can prove their mettle. Their mettle can be proven through time by
being disciplined, focused and ardently labouring to meet an objective goal. If today’s youth can show these elements, the society will then have the courage to believe as Mary Mcleod Bethune quoted, “We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends”.
~ Alemjungla Jamir
Proprietor of Naga Bowl Express Restaurant, Dimapur.
First and foremost, we need to know that securing government job is not the only key of being successful in life. Youths need to have a wailing and a strong determination to break their own barriers and follow their passion and explore the different opportunities like entrepreneurship, sports, music etc. One needs to understand one’s own passion and develop skills relating to it and be consistent in whatever he/she does. I believe this way one can prove the society that one can be successful.
- Redefine ‘Employment’.
~ Limalenden
General Secretary, MCCI
Employment is being profitably engaged in a hobby, being paid to do what we love to do; waking up every morning looking forward to a job that gives us direction, purpose and fulfillment. Earning a livelihood, making money while doing something productive that is purposeful, one that stirs our passion… that’s how I would redefine employment.
~ Dr.Moatoshi Ao
Assistant Professor, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi
Deputy Dean, Legal Affairs, University of Delhi
“Traditionally, employment is a contract where a person is employed by the employer to perform some work for a consideration, however with the LPG (Liberalization, Privatization & Globalization) regime, employment does not only mean where a person is set to work for consideration but he may employ himself in many ways to earn profits.”
- Should the state Government revive and reintroduce the skill development trades in the educational institutions as a compulsory subject?
~ Bendangkokba, IAS
Commissioner & Secretary, Rural Development, Nagaland
There was a time the young boys learnt all types of skill trade in ‘Arju’. At the same time, the young girls were trained in ‘Tsuki’ to make yarn, stitch clothes and wave shawls. Their lives survived and sustained. In today’s world we have School in lieu of Arju and Tsuki. The school should be a learning institution to impart skill trade which should be made compulsory.
- Give an antidote to combat procrastination in order to achieve our goals?
~ Ms. Imkongla, IAS
Joint Secretary, Ministry of Women & Child Development, GoI
One is never ever fully prepared to address responsibilities nor is there any best time to achieve ones goals. Procrastinating is a sign of weakness as there is no substitute for experience and hard work.
~ Mr. Uniel, IPS
S.P. Zunheboto
What you do now becomes your habit and your habits define your destiny. We all procrastinate- it’s human. We should try to focus on what is in front of us and on what can be done now and not let things overwhelm us- one step at a time
~ Dr Walunir,
Associate Profesor, Amity University
Passion, interest and consistency are the hallmarks of success and remedy for procrastination. Clarity of goal propels enthusiasm and consistent toil. Besides, there is no reason to delay for those who see life as a series of challenges and visualize success beyond the immediacy of short term goal.
- In recent years, there are less achievers among the Aos in various competitive exam. Can you identify some reasons why this is happening?
~ Mr. Uniel, IPS
S.P. Zunheboto
The economy of the country over the last 3 decades has expanded and provided alternative employment opportunities to our youth both in private and public sectors. We should not see less number of Aos in public competitive examinations as worrisome but rather an encouragement that alternative career options have been pursued.
~ Dr Walunir,
Associate Professor, Amity University
One can give a hundred reasons – mobile phone addiction, social media, complacency, laziness, bad schooling, substandard higher education, financial problem, hope for or disillusionment with back-door appointments, etc. However, the simplest but most important reason is, today’s Ao students don’t study as required by the tough competitive examinations.
- The traditional way of pursuing education for a white collared job versus the present need and skill specializations in the job market. Comment.
~ Dr Walunir,
Associate Professor, Amity University:
Today, white collar jobs are on a slide (openings and relevance), while professional skill jobs proliferate. In the Western world of ‘Industry 4.0’, graduates of ‘Education 4.0’ with professional attributes meet the demands of industry. While conventional topics on ethics, arts and culture should be retained, redundant degrees and ideas must be replaced with professional skill based educational programs to meet the growing needs of job industry.
- Is ‘Non Detention Policy’ of the Govt. of India applicable in our state?
~ Dr. Chubatola
Administrator, C-Edge College, Dimapur
“Non Detention Policy”, failed in Nagaland because the pedagogy in our state has not evolved yet to the level to handle this effectively. Consequently, we see more of adverse effects than the implicit benefits. If the teaching-learning environment is open to a more sophisticated and intensive mode of engagement, it can be made applicable.
~ Dr. Sentikumla
Section 16 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Act 2019, empowered the appropriate Government regarding, ‘No Detention Policy’. However, in our State, unless certain modifications based on teacher’s commitment, educational infrastructure, social and economic spheres are taken into account, the objectives of education will be compromised.
~ WapangnaroPongen
Vice Principal, Jubilee Memorial School, Mokokchung
‘Non detention policy’ is not applicable in the state if the teachers and the stakeholders cannot implement the policy accurately. In principal, the policy is child friendly with less study pressure. But erroneous way of executing the policy may give rise to a generation of Naga kids who would not be able to handle failures at all. It will also pave way to have a half- hearted attitude towards education because for many Naga students education is not in their priority list and this would gradually lead to downfall of the standard of education. Since the students got used to pressure free environment, it may crumble when they are faced to put in an effort for grade 9 examinations. Thus, no detention policy when not applied effectively would create an unclear future for the students in the state.
- Is the present Education Curriculum (in Nagaland) strong enough to meet the future sustainable and holistic development of our future generation?
~ Dr. Chubatula
Administrator, C-Edge College, Dimapur
It is not easy to give a simple definitive yes/no here as I perceive that the Naga educational scenario is in a very fluid state at this stage. On one side, we acknowledge that efforts are made for a relevant curriculum, from every nook and corner we hear the buzzwords like ‘skills’ ‘entrepreneurship’ ‘holistic’ ‘sustainable’ etc. But on the other, so many schemes, seminars, exhortations, but how far have these translated into tangible results? As a college teacher, we get more students who are not fully equipped to cope with the Under Graduate level of study, and many graduate with more fear and doubts for their future. We need to do more in curriculum development, and even more in the application.
19. In what ways should the Aos reinvigorate?
~ Dr. Tali Imsong
Deputy Director, Dept. of Border Affairs, Govt. of Nagaland
(a) Resolve the long-standing Naga political struggle
Since 1890’s the Aos started paying tax to the Britishers to administer and give security which was done in mutual understanding. But today, we are paying taxes to multiple Naga political Groups which adversely affect our society. Henceforth, we should put forward the slogan ‘one government, one tax’.
(b) Back to the roots: Economic perspective
Since the days of yore, the Aos were self-dependent socially and economically, haeving vast surplus of land. If we take a look at today’s scenario, we are heavily dependent on our neighbouring states and we failed to utilise the available resources in many ways, which brings downfall to our economy
Do we have to go back to our roots to be self-dependent again?
(c) Empowering women
Are we lacking behind realizing the importance of women in the society? Or are we just ignoring the fact because of our Ego?
Till date, women do not enjoy many privileges in socio-political strata. To give equal platform for the women, certain opportunity should be provited for the women folk in order to encourage them in reaching greater horizon.
(d) The role of church has to be defined: Social issues
The Nagaland Liquor Prohibition Act 1989 was passed by the state government, with Nagaland been declared as a dry state. Since then, the social menace of alcoholism has been increasing yearly with many people dying untimely and also with increasing number of broken families. Meanwhile the church has played a major role in passing this Act but there is not even one existing Rehabilitation Centre for addiction run by the church. The church should not only focus on preaching but must be pragmatic and establish Rehab Centres for those who are suffering from different type of addictions.
(e) Reforming the concept of seeking white collar jobs
It’s high time for the youths to ponder upon whether white collar jobs option for survival!
The youths today should stop depending on public sector alone. With the availability of resources and talents the younger generation should create avenues to institutionalise revenue and provide job opportunities for the future generation. Hence, the younger generation should be a job creator, not a job seeker.
The Nokinketer 