The Department of Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship conducted the closing programme of the “Providing Access to Core Employability Skills” (PACES) initiative in partnership with the Zynorique Initiative Society (ZIS) at Orchid Square, Indisen, Dimapur on 24th April 2026.
Employment Officer, Kahoto K. Zhimomi, in his address, expressed gratitude to the Zynorique Initiative Society for successfully conducting the training. Highlighting the objectives of the programme, Zhimomi informed that PACES has been implemented across Nagaland, covering selected subdivisions and aspirational blocks. He informed that the training modules were tailored to meet specific skill requirements, enabling trainees to enhance their employability and secure sustainable livelihoods.
He further informed that a total of 16 locations were identified for the training, with the department aiming to train 1,000 youth. In the first phase, around 400 youths have already been successfully trained. Building on this progress, the department now aims to train at least 1,000 youths in the next phase. Zhimomi also acknowledged the support extended by Advisor for Labour, Employment & Skill Development & Excise, Moatoshi, for providing the training venue and logistical assistance free of cost, which contributed significantly to the successful completion of the programme.
Addressing the issue of unemployment, he noted that as of March 2026, over 70,000 unemployed youths are registered with employment exchanges across Nagaland, with Dimapur alone accounting for more than 21,000. He emphasized that government jobs alone cannot absorb all job seekers due to the limited industrial base in the state. In this regard, he underscored the importance of such skill development initiatives, which aim to empower youth to become self-reliant.
Encouraging the trainees, Zhimomi urged them not to remain idle after completing the training but to actively utilize the skills they have acquired. He suggested forming groups or teams to initiate ventures that can contribute to both personal livelihood and societal development. He further remarked that mastering any skill requires time and consistent practice, adding that a seven-day training programme serves only as a foundation. Expressing optimism, he stated that with dedication and perseverance, the trainees would eventually excel in their respective trades and move forward confidently in their careers.
Representatives of the training partner, Zynorique Initiative Society (ZIS), in his address, stated that from the very first day until the conclusion of the training, the trainees consistently demonstrated sincerity, discipline, and immense potential in acquiring new skills. He noted that such commitment reflects the readiness of the youth to embrace opportunities for self-improvement and employment.
Encouraging the participants to maintain the same level of dedication beyond the training period, he urged them to continue putting in their best efforts even after returning to their respective communities. He emphasized that the end of the training should mark the beginning of a journey toward growth and self-reliance. He also advised the trainees to remain humble despite the knowledge and skills they have gained, and stressed the importance of using these skills to serve the needs of society, rather than becoming overly confident.
Further, the trainees were cautioned against rushing to earn quick money. Instead, they were encouraged to take a steady and patient approach - focusing on refining their skills, working diligently, and building their livelihoods through honesty and sincerity. He expressed optimism that with perseverance, humility, and consistent effort, the trainees would be able to make meaningful contributions to their communities while securing sustainable livelihoods.
Earlier, the programme commenced with an invocation by Pastor of Ao Baptist Church, Indisen, Rev. Sentiyanger. Followed by, Trainees Tiayanger and Rongsengkaba Jamir shared their experiences during the training, reflecting on the skills and knowledge gained through the initiative.
The event also featured the distribution of certificates and toolkits to the trainees, marking the successful completion of the programme.
(Tovikali, IA, Dimapur)
