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Our Correspondent
Mokokchung, Nov. 8 (EMN): Ongpangkong Students’ Conference (OKM) held its third edition of “Tetsu Oshi Wazuka Ayuba Mapatong 2021 - 2024” (awareness on preserving Ao language) on November 8 on the theme "Tetsü Oshi Tali Senputi" roughly translated as ‘embracing mother tongue.’
The first two phases of the competition were conducted online because of the pandemic lockdown. The third phase of the competition ‘Ao slam poetry’ was held at Multipurpose Hall in Khensa village, some 15 kilometers away from Mokokchung town on November 8.
Dr. Rongsenchiba, general secretary of Ongpangkong Conference (OM), who was the special guest of the inaugural function, underscored the need to protect one’s language in order to promote and preserve their identity, culture, tradition and custom. He added that to protect one’s language, one must be able to read, speak and write.
He also cautioned that their language could be hijacked in future by foreign languages if their language was weakened. He cited instances on the usage of other foreign names to refer to a landmark instead of using the forefather’s given name of each landmark.
Sashimeren Jamir, convener of the Tetsu Oshi Wazuka Ayuba Mapatong 2021–2024, cautioned the gathering that Ao language was listed as an endangered language according to experts.
In this regard, he called upon the students to adapt with the changing world by preserving and promoting their language which identifies one’s identity.
Nekmi Longkumer, AKM general secretary, has stressed on the importance of each language. He urged the Ao community to give importance to their language and promote through various forms of awareness programmes.
He further encouraged the youth not to hesitate in asking queries. He concluded by saying, “When one’s languages are lost, one’s cultural identity gets endangered.”
In his brief exhortation, Imtitoshi, chairman of Khensa Village Council, asserted that one need to change where it is required; do research where it is required to bring out facts and figures.