Dr. Lanurenla addressing the gathering during the 23rd
general conference of Watsü Mungdang at Mokokchung Town Hall.
- MOKOKCHUNG — A
two-day 23rd general conference of Watsü Mungdang, an apex women’s organisation
of the Ao community, held on the theme “Yakpangsür” (forerunners), highlighted
the pivotal roles of women in literature and decision-making, urging a cultural
and social renaissance.
- The conference, which concluded on Friday at Mokokchung Town
Hall, drew over 850 delegates from 24 town units and six ranges across Ao
territory.
- On day one, Dr. Lanurenla, principal of Sao Chang College,
delivered a stirring address on “Kenozülu nung Yakpangsür” (forerunners in
literature), wherein she described literature as a transformative force with
the “ability to shake and change the world.” She, however, lamented the
historical barriers that silenced women’s voices, forcing many to write under
male pseudonyms.
- Urging women to break those shackles, she encouraged them to
embrace all forms of writing—poetry, novels, biographies, essays and histories.
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- “All of us are capable of contributing to our language and
culture,” she said, citing Enheduanna, the world’s first recorded author, as
proof of women’s literary legacy.
- Dr. Lanurenla celebrated Padmashri Temsüla Ao, whose journey
from barefoot schoolgirl to Sahitya Akademi Award winner inspired countless Ao
women, yet highlighted a stark gap in female authorship.
- Noting most Ao authors are over 50, she called for youth
engagement to preserve the mother tongue.
- Proposing literary workshops, competitions and conferences,
she opined that “If literature is prioritised, 80% of our cultural revival will
follow.” She cautioned against losing indigenous identity to western
influences, urging women to boldly champion their heritage.
- On day two, Rev. Dr. Wati Longchar, executive director of
FTEAP, spoke on “Telemtetba agiyim nung yakpangsür” (forerunner in
decision-making), emphasising preparation as the key to leadership.
- “You must have courage, experience and knowledge to contribute,”
he said, arguing that equal participation of women is essential for societal
progress. Challenging male-dominated norms, he asked, “If we change our
structures, are women ready to offer their perspectives at the highest levels?”
- Longchar stressed that voicing clear opinions—whether in
agreement or dissent—is vital to reshaping community mindsets and encouraged
women to prepare across diverse fields to lead transformative change.
- The conference also featured addresses by the presidents of
AKM and Ao Senden, reinforcing the call for women’s empowerment.
- Meanwhile, a new team of Watsü Mungdang was announced with
Tianaro Jamir (Longsa) as president, I Tangitla (Asangma) as vice president,
Nokinnaro (Mangmetong) as general secretary and Wapangienla (Aonokpu) as
assistant secretary.
