EDC ‘Innovation Challenge’ held in Kiphire, Chozuba schools

DIMAPUR — The Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) ‘Innovation Challenge’ was held simultaneously at GHSS Kiphire and GHSS Chozuba on July 24 and the 25th.

This two-day event, designed to cultivate the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial zeal among students, was orchestrated by YouthNet with the support of Startup Nagaland, Department of Industries and Commerce, stated an update from YouthNet.

The EDC ‘Innovation Challenge’ aims to inspire and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs in Nagaland, encouraging students to develop creative solutions and business ideas.

The EDC Innovation Challenge was held simultaneously at both Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Kiphire and Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Chozuba to foster innovation and entrepreneurial mindset among students, it stated.

According to YouthNet, the event is structured to maximise both educational and practical exposure for the students.

Also read: 140 youth complete YouthNet’s ‘Sip and Crunch’ programme

The first day featured a formal training programme designed to equip students with essential entrepreneurial skills and knowledge. On the second day, participants had the opportunity to present their innovative ideas during a pitching session, where they received valuable feedback and cash prizes for winners.

At GHSS Kiphire, the startup founders of Clefnote Music Academy and Store Pvt. Ltd. and Pungro Power Soil Innovator, shared their entrepreneurial journeys in inspiring and motivating the students.

While at GHSS Chozuba, the startup founders of Tsivi Self Care Pvt. Ltd. and Abi Weaves guided and motivated the students with their entrepreneurial experiences.

Situated in the easternmost part of Nagaland bordering Myanmar, Kiphire district was selected as one of the aspirational districts in India by the government in 2017. Known for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and traditional customs, Kiphire is often referred to as the ‘Land of minerals’ due to its abundant mineral deposits, it stated.

“It may be noted that to promote startup culture and innovation amongst the youth in Nagaland, Nagaland Start-up Policy states that the Government should establish EDC in schools.

“The Department of Industries and Commerce has partnered with YouthNet since 2021 and has set up 16 EDCs in education institutions across the 16 districts of Nagaland with over 1300 students enrolled across the state,” the update informed.

The EDCs provides critical facilities like plug-n-play working space and internet connectivity along with research and testing labs. This collaboration sets to build the capacity of the faculty to encourage the students to pursue entrepreneurship, embed entrepreneurship modules in the schools with the inclusion of innovative projects and support innovators to scale up their ideas.