Anthony Ngullie with others during the launching programme of mentorship and skill based economic sustenance prog for athletes in Kohima on June 9. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | June 9
The Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Government of Nagaland has launched two important initiatives- Mentorship for holistic development of student athletes and skill- based economic sustenance programme for athletes of Indira Gandhi Stadium Academy, Kohima.
Launching the initiatives here on June 9, Anthony Ngullie, Secretary, Youth Resources & Sports, said, “We have been discussing about this mentorship as well as the skill development of our athletes who are staying in our hostel at present and for those who have stayed and left the academy.”
“We (Mentors) will be doing our part by having a direct one-to-one conversation and a closer examination of each and every student,” Ngullie said.
He said that the department has made a very well refined framework for this mentorship programme.
Touching on the rising unemployment trends in the state, he said “what we need at the moment is skill training. Young people should know some skills.”
He recalled that the department has organised mobile training last year wherein one of the trainees opened a mobile preparing shop in High School, Kohima.
“We may not be able to achieve 100%, but even one achievement is a huge and a big achievement for us,” he said.
Let us make this program a huge success, Ngullie insisted.
Kethosituo Sekhose, Director, Youth Resources & Sports said that a lot of independence has been given to the department as far as flexibility in framing the various programmes is concerned under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio and Youth Resources & Sports advisor S. Keoshu Yimkhiung.
He said that the department will be implementing about 31 different programmes across the state during 2026.
Sekhose said that the mentorship programme will build the skill of the athletes to enable them to stand on their own two feet.
“I hope and pray that this programme will change the lives of our young ones,” he said.
Mentorship prog for holistic development of student athletes
Naroenla, Youth Resources & Sports officer said that the mentorship programme for holistic development of student athletes and skill based economic substance programme for athletes have been introduced with a clear objectives to ensure the athletes are equipped with the knowledge, skills, values, and opportunities needed succeed both in sports and in life.
“Over the years, the Indira Gandhi Stadium Academy has played a significant role in nurturing sporting talent in the state. However, the department recognized that the journey of an athlete extends beyond training sessions and competition. Many student athletes face the challenge of balancing sports with academics, personal development, and future career goals,” she said.
Realizing the importance to provide them with a support system that helps them grow both as athletes and as individuals, the Mentorship Programme for Holistic Development of Student Athletes has been introduced.
While athletes will continue to receive training and guidance from their coaches in their respective disciplines, they will now also be supported by officers of the Department who will serve as mentors, Naroenla said.
Le by Anthony Ngullie, she said “We have 11 mentors and each mentor has been assigned around 12 to 13 athletes to ensure meaningful interaction and individual attention.”
The programme will commence this month and will continue till March 2027.
The mentors will guide their mentees in areas such as academic progress, physical and mental well being, discipline, life skills, and career awareness.
“Through regular engagement, the programme seeks to foster a strong bond between officers and athletes while promoting a sense of responsibility and accountability among the officers towards the athletes of the academy. More importantly, it aims to create a supportive environment where every athlete feels encouraged to overcome challenges and realise their full potential,” she said adding that the department also recognize the importance of preparing “our athletes for life beyond sports.”
“While sports will always remain their primary focus, it is equally important to equip them with practical skills that can contribute to their long term economic security and self reliance,” She said.
Skill based economic sustenance prog for athletes
The kill based economic sustenance programme for athletes for above 15 years of age has been introduced to provide vocational and entrepreneurial skills that create opportunities for livelihood and income generation.
The programme will begin on 11th June and continue until October. Each skill module has been structured over a one month period, comprising two weeks of expert led training followed by two weeks of guided self practice.
Under this initiative, athletes will receive training in five vocational skills namely mobile repairing, crochet, pickle making and food processing, baking and basic confectionery, and floristry and floral arrangement.
These skill areas have been carefully selected for their practical value, accessibility, and potential for self employment and entrepreneurship.
In addition to learning these skills, participants will have the opportunity to interact with successful entrepreneurs and resource persons. They will also gain practical knowledge on topics such as financial literacy, marketing, customer relations, and managing a small business, helping them turn their skills into income generating opportunities.
Through these initiatives, the Department reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the overall growth and development of the athletes.
“Our aim is to help them excel in sports while also equipping them with the skills, confidence, and support needed to navigate life beyond the field. We are confident that these programmes will empower our athletes and create positive impact on their lives,” Naroenla said.
