The platinum jubilee celebration of Jangpetpkong Students Conference (JKTM) culminated on December 19, at Alongkima.
The valedictory programme was graced by Nagaland Legislative Assembly, speaker Sharingain Longkumer, as special guest and pastor, Kohima Ao Baptist Church, Arep Tzüdir, as speaker, who spoke on the topic “Tera Dangi Meyipdi”, which translated as, “Back to the roots”.
The jubilee was celebrated under the theme “Mita Yanglushidi” (roughly translated as Transforming Vigilantly).
A press release by JKTM informed that Sharingain in his speech emphasized the significance of “Land of Pioneers”, particularly the six ranges of the Ao region, and urged everyone to reflect on their pride as Ao people. He also emphasized the need to collectively work towards a common cause. In the context of the 21st century and rapidly evolving global society, he highlighted the inevitability of change and encouraged introspection on how Ao people understand their birthplace.
Sharingain also acknowledged the historical contributions of Ao people, including the introduction of Christianity in Nagaland and achievements in education, bureaucracy, sports, and literature. He therefore challenged the community to live up to the characteristics of pioneers, by being brave, bold, hardworking, innovative, and solution-oriented.
Speaking in line with the theme, he stressed the importance of knowledge, belief, speaking skills, and overall self-improvement. He encouraged the students to discover their talents, reminding them of hardworking nature of their forefathers who earned the title “Land of Pioneers”.
Sharingain further highlighted the issues in the Jangpetpkong range, specifically poor road connectivity and electricity expansion, and assuring stability. He also released the platinum jubilee souvenir book, which was presided by convener, Editorial Board, Dr. Walunir.
In the second session, professor, NU SASRD, Department of Agronomy, Medziphema, Dr. L. Tongpang Longkumer, spoke on the topic “Tejakleniilongdi”, roughly translated to “Forge Ahead”.