Kitoho S Rotokha along with others during the inaugural day of the 38th edition of the ZASA Kukami Trophy at the District Sports Council Ground, Zunheboto on January 12. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | January 12
The 38th Zunheboto Area Sports Association (ZASA) Kükami Trophy kicked off on January 12 at the District Sports Council Ground, Zunheboto.
A total of 16 villages are participating in the 38th edition of the ZASA Kükami Trophy, which will conclude on January 17, with competitions in football and volleyball.
Gracing the opening ceremony as the special guest, Kitoho S Rotokha, former Deputy Chairperson of the Zunheboto Town Council and Vice President of the Sumi Hoho, expressed mixed feelings and stressed the need to revive and retrospect the functioning of ZASA.
He pointed out that the association has been using the same ground for more than three decades without proper infrastructure. He highlighted that soft power such as sports, music and culture has no barriers, and urged youths to pursue their talents with dedication.
Citing the saturation and over-employment in the government sector in Nagaland, Rotokha emphasised the need to acquire skills to create opportunities. While acknowledging the role of schools and institutions in imparting quality education, he said it was equally important to promote holistic education and adopt co-curricular activities in schools.
Rotokha also encouraged greater focus on skill development and sports, and cautioned against compromising traditional titles, noting that the Sumi and Yimchunger tribes are among those with hereditary village chieftainship systems.
He further highlighted that Article 371(A) protects the people of Nagaland and advised focusing on long-term benefits rather than instant gains. He also called for serious attention towards the development of a standard turf football ground.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Akavi S Zhimo, Games and Sports Secretary of ZASA. The programme began with an invocation by Dr Ikheto Awomi, Pastor of Natha Old Baptist Church, followed by a welcome address delivered by Akukau Khekuto Zhimo, Chairman of Zunheboto Tokujo Kukami. A special number was presented by Liagrace T Yeptho.
The oath-taking ceremony was administered by the Games and Sports Secretary of ZASA, after which the special guest officially opened the match.
