Embrace Progressive Vision: Chukitong Range Students’ Union celebrates Golden Jubilee

Morung Express News
Wokha | December 19

The Chukitong Range Students’ Union (CRSU) marked its Golden Jubilee Celebration under the theme “Embrace Progressive Vision” at the Helipad, Chukitong Town. The event was graced by chief guest Achumbemo Kikon, MLA & Chairman of Sub-Divisional Planning and Development Board (SDPDB), Bhandari, special guest Chumlamo Humtsoe (NCS), Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung, and Theme Speaker Chumbemo Jerret Patton, a Social Development Entrepreneur.

In his address, chief guest Achumbemo Kikon extended his warm greetings on the very auspicious occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Chukitong Range Students’ Union (CRSU). He expressed that it was both a privilege and an honour for him to be part of such a significant occasion.

He reflected on the formation of the union and recalled that when the first jubilee session of the CRSU was held, Lt TA Ngullie, MLA, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Similarly, 50 years later, the jubilee celebration is again honoured by the presence of an MLA as the chief guest, which he described as a perfect example of the saying, “History repeats itself.”

Kikon further highlighted the significant contributions of key figures such as Lt Pinyimthung Patton, Lt NN Ngullie, and Lt TA Ngullie. He noted that these individuals were, in one way or another, contributors, sponsors, and patrons of the union, and therefore, they deserved real honour and recognition.

He also reminded the audience how fortunate they were to be celebrating this golden jubilee with the first president of the Chukitong Range Students’ Union, who was present to share his valuable experiences, knowledge and insights that many in the gathering were unaware of. He described this as a priceless gift for all. Reflecting on the vision of the pioneers who founded the union, he stated that their progressive mindset and forward-thinking process were evident in their efforts to establish the union.

Looking ahead, he encouraged the students to think towards the future, reminding them that in 25 years’ time, they would be celebrating the Platinum Jubilee, and in another 25 years, they would reach the Centenary. He suggested that the goal for the next 25 years should be a continuation of the values and spirit represents in today’s jubilee celebration.

Lastly, he urged the students to remember that they are always in competition with their peers and encouraged them to use their time wisely and judiciously, making the most of the opportunities they have to shape their future.

Forward-thinking mindset 
The theme speaker, Chumbemo Jerret Patton, speaking on the theme “Embrace Progressive Vision,” highlighted the importance of adopting a forward-thinking mindset that values innovation, inclusivity, and long-term growth. He emphasised the need to set short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals in life, stating that doing so provides the key to success. He remarked that the CRSU is celebrating its golden jubilee, so one should seize this opportunity to learn new things that will benefit everyone in the future.

He reminded the students and youth present at the celebration about the National Youth Policy, which was initiated by the Government of India in 2014 to promote youth development and encourage their participation in critical areas such as entrepreneurship, community development, governance, politics, and welfare. He highlighted the five major youth development priorities of the National Youth Policy 2021: education and employment, entrepreneurship, youth leadership, health, fitness & sports, and social justice.

He further discussed generational differences, noting that while it is too early to define the legacy of generations, their environment teaches us the importance of preparing one for an uncertain future. He stressed that we must equip them with critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and adaptability in order to help them thrive in an ever-changing world. He also underscored the need for leadership that prioritises collective well-being. He called for a shift in mindset where leaders are not just problem-solvers but also visionaries who invest in sustainable solutions, education, and social equity.

He also emphasised the significance of life skills, identifying self-awareness, empathy, critical thinking, and creative thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and coping with stress as essential skills for personal and collective growth. He stated that when we acquire these skills, particularly empathy, we can go a long way in improving our lives and society. He encouraged the students to challenge themselves in these areas to realise their full potential.

The event also featured an uplifting exhortation from Khumkhothung Ngullie, the first president of the Chukitong Range Students’ Union, who expressed his joy at the union’s positive progress and the remarkable growth it has witnessed over the past decades.

During the programme, a silent prayer was offered honouring the pioneers of the Chukitong Range who contributed to the establishment and welfare of the Students’ Union while the Jubilee Souvenir was officially launched by Achumbemo Kikon, MLA & Chairman, SDPDB, Bhandari.

Earlier, a dedicatory prayer for the Jubilee Monolith was offered by Sankiluma Kikon, Pastor, Kohima Lotha Baptist Church, followed by the unveiling of the monolith by the chief guest.

The Monolith Patron was Lt NN Ngullie, IPS (Retd) and Family.

The programme was chaired by E Nongothung Kikon, former President Chukitong Range Students’ Union, with an invocation led by Rev Rentsamo Kithan, Pastor, Nungying Baptist Church. Yangrothung Humtsoe, President, Chukitong Range Students’ Union, delivered the welcome address, while Renbomo Ezung, Chairman, Chukitong Range Public Organisation, extended Jubilee greetings.

Additional highlights of the event included a special song by Saronthung Kikon, a solidarity message from Chumben Khüvung, General Secretary, Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), a special number by the Koio Baptist Church Choir, a cultural performance by the Chukitong Area Baptist Mission School, and Benediction by Mhao Kikon, Pastor, Tsungiki Baptist Church.

The second session of the Golden Jubilee celebration was graced by Chumlamo Humtsoe (NCS), Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung, as the special guest.

During the second session, the event saw a unique moment where sealing of the time capsule for 2024 to 2049 was conducted.