Nagaland University (NU), the only Central University in the state, has announced the launch of a new interdisciplinary Master of Arts programme in Language and Culture. The initiative is aimed at promoting and preserving the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Naga people.
According to a NU, the programme—designed by the Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies—is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and reflects its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. The four-semester course allows students to explore diverse subjects instead of remaining confined to a single academic stream.
Graduates of the programme would be eligible to appear for NET in three subjects—Linguistics, Folk Literature, and Tribal & Regional Languages. A total of 20 students have been admitted to the inaugural batch, with classes set to begin from August 5.
NU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, described the programme as a historic milestone and reiterated the University’s commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, and the advancement of indigenous knowledge systems.
Assistant Professor, Centre for Naga Tribal Language Studies, Dr. Yanbeni Yanthan, stated that the course aims to address pressing issues such as language revitalisation, policy development, and the poetics of lesser-known indigenous cultures. She added that graduates will be equipped for career paths in research, teaching, consultancy, digital archiving, and policy analysis.
The university noted that the MA in Language and Culture represents a future-forward vision of education where learning connects deeply with community impact, especially for tribal languages and heritage.
NU introduces MA in Language and Culture
DIMAPUR