Officials and others during the ‘Ao Oshi Angazükshiyim’ (Relearning the Ao language) programme held at Sungratsü Senden Salang on July 8.
‘Relearning the Ao language’ programme held in Sungratsü village
Mokokchung, July 8 (MExN): The Asetkong Kaketshir Telungjem Mungdang (Asetkong Students' Conference) organised ‘Ao Oshi Angazükshiyim’ (Relearning the Ao language) programme at Sungratsü Senden Salang on July 8 with Temjen Tzüdir from Ao Riju as the resource person.
In his speech, Temjen Tzüdir stressed that Ao Senden is actively working to preserve the Ao language in every possible way. He emphasised the value of learning the Ao language by following the fundamental steps and underlined the strength that comes from language itself, saying that “Language is strength.”
He encouraged the gathering to preserve their identity by speaking the Ao language, comparing it to writing it firmly in their hearts as the Bible says. According to him, people who are confident in their native tongue can also speak other languages with ease.
He urged reflection on the situation of the Ao language today, our proficiency in teaching and learning it, and the initiatives being taken to make studying it easier. He underlined the relevance of the Government of India's eighth schedule and urged the attendees to investigate the ways in which a language's status rises when it enters this schedule. He made the observation that we are falling behind in language preservation
He praised the Ongpangkong Students’ Conference for their proactive efforts in organizing various educational and competitive programs aimed at preserving the Ao language. He also encouraged the Asetkong Kaketshir Telungjem Mungdang to initiate their work in this direction. He emphasized that churches should play a significant role in this endeavor. He mentioned that the Ao language is given importance at Clark Theological College, where it is taught in the first semester currently.
Supongsashi, Vice President of Asetkong Conference (Asetkong Mungdang), and M Taka Longchar, Chairman of Sungratsü Village Council, also spoke on the occasion.
The programme was chaired by Katilong Jamir, President of MALT. Pastor I Kilen Longchar of Sungratsü Baptist Arogo pronounced the invocation, featuring a song from the Longjang Kaketshir Telungjem. Kajenkaba Aier, President of AKTM, delivered the welcome address while Penlichang Aier, Tezülur Sobaliba Luden delivered the votes of thanks.
The second session witnessed various cultural shows led by Akummenla.
