DIMAPUR: Rengma Nthenyi Literature Board Chunlikha (RNLBC) launched the Rengma Nthenyi Academy on August 25 at the NRCF Building, Chunlikha, with DPDB Tseminyu chairman, Ar. Jwenga Seb, MLA as the special guest.
According to a press release, Seb in his address emphasised the importance of mother tongues, stating that “others will know who you are through your language.” He added that mastering one’s dialect enables better command over other languages such as English, Hindi, and Nagamese.
He likened learning one’s mother tongue to planting a big tree in life, under which one can take shelter and enjoy its fruits. Seb further remarked that the RNLBC had created history for upcoming generations by enabling them to learn their own language and culture, and to read and write in it.
The release stated that Rev. Tusaya Kath pronounced the dedicatory prayer, while the Kithagha Union Baptist Church Youth Ministry Choir presented a special number. The programme was chaired by RNLBC secretary, Dr. Shasinlo Magh, and the welcome address was delivered by RNLBC chairman, Khinyi Woch, who highlighted the systematic progress of the Nthenyi dialect over the years leading to the launch of the Academy.
It was noted that the Nthenyi language was recognised by the Government of Nagaland in 2017 and has since caught up with the development of other languages in the state.
During the event, the Prospectus of the Academy was also launched, while Language Assistant (Rengma Nthenyi), Shelepfü Kath, was awarded a “Proficiency Certificate” in recognition of his dedication and hard work towards the development of Nthenyi literature.
