Prof. NS Jamir, Vice-Chancellor In-charge addressing the International Mother Language Day celebrated in Nagaland University, Lumami on February 21. (Photo Courtesy: NU Lumami)
Lumami, February 21 (MExN): International Mother Language Day was celebrated in Nagaland University, Lumami on February 21 with the theme ‘Indigenous languages as a factor in development, peace and reconciliation.’
In the chief guest address, Prof. NS Jamir, Vice-Chancellor In-charge, briefly dwelt on the origin of the celebration of International mother language day. He spoke about the effort being made by the Government of Nagaland in promoting local language in school education.
Research has revealed, he said, “people’s culture, tradition and values are best passed on from generation to generation through mother tongue. It also builds inclusive knowledge societies, preserves cultural heritage, mobilizes political will and applies the benefit of science and technology to sustainable development.”
Peter Ki, PRO, NU Lumami in a press release said that the programme held in the Department of Economics, NU, Lumami was chaired by Neizhanuo Golmei, Asst Prof, Department of Political Science. Dr. Tiasunep, Asst Prof, Department of Anthropology, introduced the programme saying, “Culture is embedded in the language we speak.” The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Kundan Kumar, SMS, KVK.
Prof AK Singh Department of Political Science asserted that in the age of globalisation mother tongue is crucial to protecting and preserving one’s culture, history and identity. He appreciated the success of the people of Nagaland in preserving their folk songs and folk dances. Ruing the current trend of denigrating mother tongue in favour of foreign languages, Prof AK Singh called for a revisit of the mindset towards giving mother tongue its due place.
Prof. Sangyu Yaden, Controller of Examination In-charge spoke from experience, highlighting his active involvement in the preservation of Ao language and culture.
Dr. Anthony V. Richa, Dy. Registrar, delivered the vote thanks. The programme was attended by faculty members, administrative staff members, and students.
NU Kohima Campus observes Mother Language Day
Kohima, February 21 (MExN): Students and faculty from Nagaland University observed the International Mother Language Day here at Kohima Campus, Mereima.
The function was organized by the Forum of Naga Languages which is comprised of the Department of Linguistics, Department of Tenyidie and the Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies and chaired by Dr. Imlienla Imchen, Assistant Professor, Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Mimi Kevichusa Ezung, Head, Department of Tenyidie. In her speech, she provided an insight into the concept of Indigenous Language while stressing that many indigenous languages have been subject to linguicide (language killing). While throwing light on why and how languages disappear, she stated that it is imperative to protect indigenous languages because loss of indigenous language signifies the loss of cultural diversity and traditional knowledge. She also gave an analysis of the Naga languages and gave a clarion call to develop indigenous languages.
Brief insights were also shared by Pro Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University, Prof R C Nayak, who presided as the chief guest, Prof Venuh, Dean, School of Social Sciences and Prof Koulie, Head, Department of Linguistics.
Students from the three departments actively contributed their participation in the form of folk songs, recitation of oral narratives and ancient poems in translation, stated a press release from the department.
