Focusing on human capital development and intl partnerships
KOHIMA: Nagaland government organised the Nagaland–Japan Connect 2026 event Wednesday at the Integrated Business Hub & Innovation Centre in Dimapur. This initiative is a key part of the State's global engagement strategy, focusing on human capital development and international partnerships.
It brought together representatives from the Nagaland government, Kochi prefecture officials, industry partners and academic institutions to discover pathways for overseas employment and skill enhancement.
Global Opportunities
I Changsang, NCS, stressed that the initiative is a long-term platform aimed at preparing youth for global opportunities and building enduring partnerships with Japan. Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, advocated for youth to gain knowledge and experience while highlighting the government's support for their success.
Minister Hekani Jakhalu addressed the need for sustainable livelihoods for job seekers, stating the initiative allows youth to expand their horizons and compete internationally.
Demand for skilled workers from Nagaland
Kunitoshi Hojo from Kochi Prefecture noted the demand for skilled workers from Nagaland, highlighting an increase from zero to 19 workers in two years. Kaushik Choudhury emphasized the economic and cultural potential of the partnership, discussing initiatives like promoting Nagaland coffee and developing cultural centers. Dr Pangersenla Walling from Nagaland University underscored the importance of language training in preparing students for global competitiveness.
Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang characterised the initiative as a strategic economic intervention, focusing on human capital as economic policy, with a long-term vision for employment and remittances. Closing remarks by Kumar Ramnikant, highlighted the programme's outcomes-driven nature, reiterating the benefits of returning youth to local enterprises after exposure to Japanese work culture.
MoU to enhance cooperation
The event concluded with the signing of key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in vocational training and international placements, while Konnekt Asia was appointed as Nagaland’s representative in Japan to facilitate investment.