KOHIMA : The Nagaland Department of Youth Resources and Sports on Tuesday launched two initiatives aimed at equipping young athletes with life skills, career guidance and economic opportunities beyond their sporting careers.

The Mentorship Programme for Holistic Development of Student Athletes and the Skill-Based Economic Sustenance Programme for Athletes were launched at the Indira Gandhi Stadium here by Youth Resources and Sports Secretary Anthony Ngullie.

The programmes, designed for athletes of the Indira Gandhi Academy, seek to address a long-standing challenge faced by young sportspersons — preparing for life after sports while balancing education, personal growth and future employment prospects.

Speaking at the launch, department officials said the initiatives reflect a broader vision of athlete welfare, recognising that sporting excellence alone cannot guarantee long-term security and success.

Under the mentorship programme, 11 officers of the department, including the Secretary himself, will serve as mentors to approximately 140 athletes.

Each mentor will guide 12 to 13 athletes through regular interactions focused on academics, physical and mental well-being, discipline, life skills and career planning.

The programme, which will run until March next year, is expected to create a structured support system where athletes can receive individual guidance beyond the training ground.

In his address, Ngullie said that while coaches will continue to oversee sporting performance, mentors will help athletes navigate personal and educational challenges, encouraging a more balanced and holistic development model.

The launch marks one of the first structured attempts by the state government to integrate sports development with career mentorship and livelihood creation, he said.

He expressed confidence that the twin initiatives would create a lasting impact on the lives of young athletes by expanding their opportunities both on and off the field, reinforcing the message that sporting success and economic empowerment can go hand in hand.

Alongside mentorship, the department also launched a skill development initiative aimed at strengthening the economic resilience of athletes.

Targeting athletes aged 15 years and above, the Skill-Based Economic Sustenance Programme will commence on Thursday and continue until October, YRS Officer Naroenla said.

Participants will receive training in practical vocational trades including mobile phone repairing, crochet, pickle making and food processing, baking and confectionery, and floristry, she said.

The programme has been designed around the idea that athletes should possess alternative skills that can generate income, support entrepreneurship and provide economic security after their competitive careers, she said.

Each training module will span one month, comprising two weeks of expert-led instruction followed by two weeks of guided practical work. (Source: PTI)