LUMAMI, APRIL 9 (MExN): A condolence programme was held on April 9 at Nagaland University, Lumami to honor the memory of late Prof A Lanunungsang Ao, who had retired as professor from the Department of Sociology, Nagaland University. Chaired by Kahoshe Sumi, DR (GAD), a short speech was delivered by Prof MK Sinha, Dean, School of Social Sciences, Nagaland University. The condolence message was read out by Dr Abemo, Registrar of Nagaland University.
The Nagaland University Teachers Association (Lumami) also, in its condolence meeting, fondly remembered late Prof Ao as one of the founding members of Lumami Campus of Nagaland University. Paying rich tributes to him, the association placed on record the numerous contributions made by him towards the development of Nagaland University.
The Department of Sociology, Nagaland University in a brief condolence tribute, remembered Prof Ao as having founded the department in 1997. The solemn gathering which was attended by faculty members, staff, PG students, and research scholars noted the immense contributions of Prof Ao to the field of Sociology and to higher education in Nagaland. Through his dedication, vision, and tireless efforts, he not only nurtured the growth of the department but also played a vital role in the overall development of Nagaland University. His legacy as a committed teacher, researcher, and administrator continues to inspire generations.
At the condolence meeting of the Department of Sociology, Dr Pitheli K. Jimo, Assistant Professor, reflected on his strong work ethics and commitment to the department. Prof Toshimenla Jamir, Head of the Department and the first PhD scholar of Prof Ao at Nagaland University, shared her personal experiences and the journey of the department under his leadership. She fondly recalled his enthusiasm for teaching and research, and the values he instilled, hard work, diligence, and teamwork among faculty, staff, and students. “He led by example and left behind a good legacy that we will forever cherish,” Prof Jamir said, urging everyone to carry forward the vision he had for the department.
Dr Yamsani Srikanth, Assistant Professor at the Tribal Research Centre, Department of Sociology, remembered Prof Ao as a warm, cheerful and welcoming figure. Despite being a senior professor, he treated everyone with respect and equality, and his eagerness to engage in teaching was a defining trait. Repakaba Tzudir, a PhD scholar from the department, shared his reflections on behalf of the student community. He expressed deep gratitude for the privilege of being taught by Prof Ao and recalled how his interest in Sociology was shaped by his classroom experiences under him. As a member of the last batch of PG students taught by Prof Ao, he paid tribute to the profound influence the late professor had on students’ academic growth and intellectual curiosity.
Prof Ao had held many important positions in the University prior to retirement. He was HoD of the Department of Sociology, Dean of the School of Social Sciences, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Kohima Campus, Nagaland University. He also shouldered the responsibility as Vice-Chancellor In-Charge on a few occasions. The University fraternity expressed belief that the legacy of Prof Ao as an exemplary academician, mentor, and visionary will continue to guide and inspire the Department of Sociology in particular and the University in general for years to come.
A true intellectual and a mentor: NUSU-L
The Nagaland University Students' Union, Lumami (NUSU-L) extended its deepest condolences on the passing of Prof A Lanunungsang Ao. A true intellectual and mentor, his dedication and contributions to the field of Sociology and education, both as a professor at Lumami Campus and Pro Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University, profoundly impacted countless lives, the condolence message from the Union read.
“Prof Ao was more than just a teacher; he was a guiding force who shaped generations of students with his wisdom, dedication, and exemplary character. His unwavering commitment to academia and the Naga community left an enduring legacy,” it stated.
