Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu, Timikha Koza, Rev. Khrotso Mero,
CD Jongeo John, and others at Ura Academy Hall, Kohima, on Wednesday. (EM
Images)
KOHIMA — The three-day 55th Annual Tenyidie
Seminar, organised by Ura Academy (UA) in collaboration with the department of
Tenyidie, Nagaland University, began on Wednesday under the theme “Dieu U
Siepetiekeshü” (Reminiscent Language) at the Ura Academy Hall, Mission
Compound, Kohima.
The Tenyimi People’s Organisation’s (TPO) vice president, CD
Jongeo John, addressing the event, stressed the need for a common language that
can be used among the Tenyimi community.
He stated that TPO is not political in nature but a family
sharing the same ancestry. He suggested that, in the interest of the Tenyimi
community, the Nagas need a common language and requested Ura Academy to include
words from other dialects so that Tenyidie can become the major common language
for the Nagas.
He also advocated making it compulsory for all Tenyimi
students to study Tenyidie up to a certain level of education to promote the
language.
Highlighting the vast areas inhabited by the Tenyimi people
across Nagaland and Manipur, he urged Ura Academy to sponsor more teachers to
teach Tenyidie in schools.
Meanwhile, Rev. Khrotso Mero, member of the UA board of
directors, stated in his speech that the Tenyidie language is a precious gift
from God and a reminder to the Tenyimi community.
Highlighting that Tenyidie is now a recognised major Indian
language (MIL), studied and used in universities, he stated it still requires
further development.
Rev. Mero said that more books need to be published, and,
therefore, authors and writers should be incentivised. He added that Tenyidie
should be introduced in schools that have not yet adopted it, and this should
be pursued with the government. He also urged Ura Academy to put in more
effort.
He further suggested that digital forms of learning, such as
videos for young children, could be an innovative way to promote the language.
He pointed out that the new National Education Policy (NEP)
emphasises compulsory learning of one’s mother tongue. While other sub-dialects
will take time to reach the level of Tenyidie, the language could be a good
option for scoring well in examinations.
Stating that with many youths seeking employment, career
guidance should be provided to encourage them to take up various professions
and trades, he said that this would open up more opportunities. He further
stressed the importance of strictly enforcing the Inner Line Permit (ILP).
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Vitshulieü
Sekhose, UA Chatha (member, board of directors), who called for collective
efforts to contribute to the development of the Tenyidie language.
On the occasion, the book ‘Themia Khunuo Kemevi’ (Were
Animal), authored by Kethoselie Zhale and published by Pentrill Publication
House, was released by Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu, president of Ura Academy.
Earlier in the day, a seminar on “Mother tongue/local
dialects of Tenyimia communities” was held with Tenyimia tribes’ and
sub-tribes’ literature boards.
On May 29, the Tenyidie Kephrünuoko Krotho (TKK) conclave
will be held, during which the Ura Academy Excellence Awards will also be
conferred.
