Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) commemorates its 96th foundation day.
Share
LONGKHUM — The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) commemorated its 96th foundation day and launched the curtain raiser for its centenary celebration at the community hall, Longkhum village, on December 29.
Delivering the presidential address, Lanutoshi Aier, president of AKM, paid tributes to the founding leaders and pioneers who guided the organisation through its 96-year journey.
He recalled the formative years of AKM, when it was established amid challenging circumstances marked by persecution and restriction, and lauded the conference’s courage in upholding the aspirations of the Ao people.
Limalenden Longkumer, editor of Mokokchung Times and member of the AKM centenary souvenir committee, elaborated on the AKM centenary theme, ‘Olemyim Tasen Ka’ (A new narrative).
Explaining the theme, Longkumer underlined key sub-themes that will guide AKM’s vision into the centenary: inclusivity and collective progress—fostering unity, mutual respect, and uplift beyond divisions; sustainability and growth—embracing adaptability, innovation, and accountability; transformation—honouring heritage while welcoming change; purpose-driven education and responsible leadership—promoting integrity and service; and dialogue, innovation, and legacy creation—encouraging open dialogue and creative problem-solving to address contemporary challenges.
Presenting the roadmap toward AKM’s 100th year, the centenary planning committee, led by convenor S Bendang Aier, announced a four-year action plan:
2026 – Year of preparation: focused on groundwork and mobilisation for the centenary.
2027 – Declaration and reconciliation year: to publicly announce the centenary and promote unity across villages and communities.
2028 – Thanksgiving and honour year: dedicated to recognising individuals who have contributed to AKM’s growth and achievements.
2029 – Year of reaching out and celebration: the grand centenary commemoration, extending invitations to all Naga tribes and well-wishers.
Exhortations were delivered by the chairman of Longkhum Putu Menden and Padma Shri T Senka Ao, former president of AKM. The invocation was pronounced by Dr. Zulu Sor, pastor of NCRC Longkhum, while a thanksgiving prayer was led by Rev. T Aka, pastor of Longkhum Baptist Church.
Rev. Talijungla APW, vice president of ABAM and pastor of Ungma Baptist Church, invoked blessings upon the gathering.
In addition, the AKM announced that its 70th general conference will be held from January 13 to the 15th at Chungtia village, Mokokchung district, on the theme ‘Strengthening horizons.’
Formed in 1929 in Longkhum village, the Ao Students’ Conference continues to play a pivotal role in promoting education, fostering social progress, and preserving the cultural identity of the Ao Naga community.