AKTM Trains Kobulong Youth in Traditional and Modern Trades

Kohima: Asetkong Kaketshir Telungjem Mungdang held a two-day skill development workshop at the Kobulong EAC Sub-Division. The event wrapped up on October 20. Over 60 local youths attended the sessions themed Pei Ketmung Ajanga Litetba Shishashir. The project grew from a resolution passed during the 43rd general conference of the organization.

AKTM president Bendangkumzuk wants local youth to find work on their own terms. He said, "AKTM believes that the community possesses valuable skills, knowledge and resources that can be developed into sustainable livelihood opportunities." The training aims to foster independence through practical, real-world experience.

Students learned to make baskets and processed banana chips and tapioca bhujia. Instructors also taught the group how to make Amzu, a traditional sticky-rice biscuit. This cultural staple faces decline, so the group pushed to turn the treat into a marketable commodity. Local resource persons shared their indigenous expertise throughout the event.

The curriculum moved beyond manual labor on the second day. Trainers covered shiitake mushroom cultivation and digital skills. Youth practiced photography, video editing, and online marketing to help sell their goods. The final sessions focused on business planning and building trade networks through both digital and physical platforms.