Aizawl, Jan 29: Mizoram Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd), today graced the 39th General Assembly cum Ruby Jubilee celebration of the Students’ Self-Support Union (SSU) as chief guest at Vanapa Hall. During the event, he also unveiled the Ruby Jubilee monument.
In his address, the Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh expressed his immense pleasure that the Students’ Self-Support Union an organisation which has consistently promoted self-reliance among students throughout their studies has now completed 40 years, thereby reaching its Ruby Jubilee. He warmly commended the union’s admirable work, noting that its efforts serve as a powerful source of inspiration to many others. Stressing that genuine progress is difficult without a clear sense of purpose and steadfast integrity, he described the SSU’s initiatives as an essential pillar of support for students.
The Governor emphasised that the SSU places considerable importance on the dignity of labour, financial self-discipline, and independence achieved through personal effort rather than dependence on others. He observed that this philosophy demonstrates that education is not simply about obtaining qualifications, but about moulding individuals into more responsible and well-rounded human beings. Praising the union’s longstanding tradition of recognising students who attain self-reliance through their own hard work, the Governor remarked: “Those who achieve self-reliance through their own endeavours become stronger, develop greater self-discipline, and are far better equipped to confront the realities and challenges of life without faltering.”
He went on to urge students to identify their own talents, hone them to mastery, and play their part in building not only Mizoram but the nation as a whole. Describing young people as foundational contributors to the realisation of the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 (Developed India by 2047), he underlined the substantial responsibility they bear. The Governor encouraged SSU leaders to consider microfinancing schemes as a means of providing more effective support to students in need. He advised students to remain resolute in pursuing their objectives while giving priority to integrity, compassion, respect for others, and service to the community. In conclusion, he stated: “True success is measured not only by personal accomplishments but also by the manner in which we support and uplift those around us.”
Earlier in the programme, SSU General Headquarters President Tv Darhmingliana outlined the organisation’s core principles: fostering self-reliance in education through individual effort and removing any stigma attached to manual labour. He stressed that the most effective expression of self-reliance lies in prudent and disciplined management of finances. He called upon members to lead modest lives, avoid imposing unnecessary burdens on their parents, and strive diligently towards genuine self-sufficiency.
The event included welcome remarks by MSU Gen Hqrs. Vice President Tv Robinson Zomuansanga, followed by the presentation of the Secretary General’s report by Tv Benjamin J. Malsawmdanga. Delegates viewed a short video documenting the SSU’s 40-year journey. Three Self-Support Awardees for 2025 were honoured in the presence of the assembly. Their inspiring personal journeys of self-reliance were read aloud to motivate the gathered students. Adviser Tv James Ramdinmawia proposed the vote of thanks, bringing the proceedings to a formal close.
During the programme, the newly elected office bearers of the SSU General Headquarters for the term 2026-2027 were announced by J. Lalramnghaka Ralte, ARO:
President: Robinson Zomuansanga
Vice President: Lalrinmawia
Secretary General: Jacob Lalduhkima
Joint Secretary: Rinsangzela
Treasurer: Lalvenhlupuii Hnamte
Finance Secretary: Lalrempuii
The Students’ Self-Support Union (SSU) was founded on 27 May 1985 at Hrangbana College, Aizawl. Its founding motto remains unchanged: “To be financially self-supported for education” and “To honour and uplift the dignity of manual labour”.
