YouthNet: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

YouthNet is a pioneering non-profit organization established in Nagaland, India, in 2006 with the mission to empower young individuals by enhancing their skills, knowledge, and attitudes to foster self-direction, productivity, and responsibility within society. Founded by a group of young Naga professionals, YouthNet seeks to tackle critical issues such as unemployment, education, and entrepreneurship, making a significant impact in Nagaland and beyond. This article delves into ten key aspects that define YouthNet's journey, achievements, and contributions to the community.

1. Foundation and Mission

Background: YouthNet was established on February 1, 2006, in response to the challenges faced by the youth in Nagaland. The organization was founded by Hekani Jakhalu, a US-educated lawyer turned social entrepreneur, and a group of young Naga professionals.
Mission: Its mission is to help youths gain the necessary skills and attitudes to become self-reliant, productive, and engaged members of their community, addressing issues in education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

2. YouthNet Portal

Purpose: The YouthNet portal is an online platform designed for career development, providing resources and guidance for youths in Nagaland to improve employability and entrepreneurial skills.
Features: The portal offers courses and tools for career planning, job searching, and skills development, encouraging digital literacy and professional growth among young users.
Impact: It has proven instrumental in equipping the youth with digital tools and resources needed for the contemporary job market.

3. YouthNet and NABARD Partnership

Collaboration: YouthNet collaborates with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to enhance entrepreneurship skills, especially among women, through programs like the "Sip & Crunch" Skill Development Program.
Outcome: These initiatives have successfully empowered over 140 youths and women, aiding them in launching their businesses and completing necessary registrations for their enterprises.

4. Pratham YouthNet and Community Engagement

Partnership: YouthNet has partnered with Pratham, an educational NGO, to promote educational initiatives across rural and urban communities, leveraging tools for education enhancement.
Community Projects: Through Pratham, YouthNet engages youths in community-oriented projects aimed at improving education and environment standards, enhancing the overall societal impact.

5. YouthNet Nagaland’s Local Impact

Local Engagement: YouthNet has made a significant impact in Nagaland through its various projects and centers like the "Made in Nagaland Centre," which supports local entrepreneurs.
Community Centers: Initiatives like LaunchPad provide guidance and resources to students, preparing them for higher education and diverse career opportunities.

6. Entrepreneurship and Economic Development

Entrepreneurial Support: Through the YouthNet Incubation Centre, the organization nurtures startups, providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities for budding entrepreneurs.
Women Empowerment: Programs such as the YouthNet Women Entrepreneurship Fellowship specifically target women entrepreneurs to promote inclusivity and diversity in the business sector.

7. Education and Skill Development

Training Programs: YouthNet organizes various skill development courses, such as plumbing and food processing, in collaboration with industry leaders and educational institutions.
Educational Partnerships: The NECTAR project, supported by the World Bank, is a notable initiative that aims to enhance teaching practices and school governance in Nagaland, amplifying the impact of educational efforts.

8. YouthNet App and Digital Initiatives

YouthNet App: The organization offers a mobile app to improve accessibility to its services, allowing users to engage with content in a more interactive manner.
Digital Learning: Through partnerships and innovative projects, YouthNet seeks to bridge the digital divide, especially in rural areas where access to technology is limited.

9. Challenges and Responses

Overcoming Barriers: YouthNet addresses the socio-economic challenges faced by Nagaland's youth, providing platforms for education and employment in regions affected by conflict and limited opportunities.
Advocacy and Policy Influence: The organization collaborates with governmental and non-governmental bodies to influence policies that foster youth empowerment and development.

10. Future Prospects

Vision for Growth: As YouthNet continues to expand its initiatives, the focus remains on creating sustainable economic growth and increasing youth participation in community development.
Global Reach: Through collaborations and digital platforms, YouthNet aims to extend its services and impact beyond Nagaland, empowering youths across Northeast India.

Conclusion

YouthNet has positioned itself as a vital force for youth empowerment in Nagaland, addressing fundamental challenges through education, entrepreneurship, and social engagement. By continuing to innovate and build on its successes, YouthNet is set to play an even more significant role in driving positive change and development within the community and beyond. With its strong foundation and commitment, the organization's journey is a testament to the transformative power of youth engagement in societal progress.