Kohima, Jan 29: Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang on Wednesday reiterated the state government’s commitment to creating a supportive ecosystem for youth through policy reforms and international collaborations, aimed at preparing young people for global career opportunities.

Addressing the Nagaland–Japan Connect 2026 event at the Integrated Business Hub and Innovation Centre (IBHIC) in Dimapur, Zeliang said the initiative was more than a formal programme and served as a platform reflecting the growing partnership between Nagaland and Japan. He said the engagement represents a shared vision focused on people-to-people diplomacy, with emphasis on education, employment, and cultural exchange.

Zeliang highlighted the recent Memorandum of Understanding signed with Japan’s Kochi Prefecture, which formalises cooperation in areas such as human resource exchange, skill development, and agriculture. He noted that such partnerships are intended to create practical opportunities for Naga youth beyond conventional institutional ties.

Kunitoshi Hojo, Deputy Director General of the Department of Commerce and Labour, Kochi Prefecture, said the region is facing an acute labour shortage due to its ageing population. He said Kochi’s global worker attraction programme aims to address this challenge and expressed hope that more youths from Nagaland would participate in the initiative.

Hojo informed that 19 youths from Nagaland are currently working in Kochi, with additional recruits expected to arrive later this year. He said the programme is designed to ensure mutual benefits through skill development and workforce exchange.

Dr Pangersenla Walling, Head of the Department of Linguistics at Nagaland University, highlighted the role of the Centre of Excellence for Foreign Languages, stating that Japanese language training is being promoted to enhance employability and equip students with globally relevant skills.