How Can Students Be Equipped with Life Skills and Critical Thinking? Nagaland CM

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Re-orientation of education is vital for student development.
- Integration of vocational training is essential.
- Students should cultivate discipline and moral values.
- Entrepreneurship is a recommended career path.
- Continuous improvement in education quality is necessary.
Kohima, June 18 (NationPress) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized on Wednesday the necessity of restructuring the education system. This transformation is vital not only to foster academic excellence but also to equip students with essential life skills, critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity, enabling them to evolve into capable, productive, and responsible global citizens.
The Chief Minister highlighted the various initiatives launched by the Government of India aimed at empowering youth through skill development. He noted that the Department of School Education in Nagaland has introduced nine skill/vocational subjects at the secondary level and eight at the higher secondary level. He encouraged the youth of Nagaland to fully utilize these opportunities.
Rio addressed the audience during the Chief Minister’s Meritorious Students Fellowship event, recognizing the top 50 students of the HSLC Examination 2025, organized by the Nagaland Board of School Education at the State Banquet Hall in Kohima.
He conveyed his pride and joy in celebrating the achievements of these outstanding students, stating that their hard work, commitment, and perseverance have made their families and the state immensely proud.
Rio urged these young achievers to keep pursuing excellence in their academic endeavors and beyond, reiterating that they are the torchbearers of tomorrow. He noted the consistent improvement in the overall pass percentage in board examinations, encouraging continued efforts to enhance the quality of education.
The Chief Minister advised students to prepare for future challenges and foster a strong sense of discipline and moral values that will guide them throughout their lives. He stated, “Perseverance and determination are keys to achieving your goals.”
He acknowledged the growing number of educated youths in the state, yet pointed out that many remain unemployable. He indicated that the government sector is saturated and cannot accommodate all educated unemployed individuals, necessitating a shift in mindset and priorities to adapt to the evolving landscape.
Rio urged the top achievers to remain focused, dedicated, and industrious, suggesting that they consider entrepreneurship as a rewarding career path, as entrepreneurial skills are crucial for the youth. He emphasized that education integrated with skill development is essential to tackle the challenges of unemployment.