Tenyidie seminar concludes with calls for language promotion

The 55th Annual Tenyidie Seminar, organized by Ura Academy in partnership with the Department of Tenyidie, Nagaland University, concluded on May 30 at Ura Academy Hall, Kohima, with appeals for increased efforts to promote the language.
In his valedictory address, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu, president of Ura Academy, reflected on the historical significance of Tenyidie, once taught in schools established by American missionaries. He lamented the gradual sidelining of the language in modern education and emphasized Ura Academy’s ongoing mission to revitalize its use and importance. “Neglecting our mother tongue is a serious concern,” he stated.
Dr. Liezietsu also highlighted discussions held on the opening day of the seminar (May 28) between Ura Academy and various Literature Boards representing sub-dialects. The deliberations focused on the National Education Policy (NEP) and its implications. He reiterated the Academy’s recommendation to adopt mother tongues as the first language in primary schools under the three-language formula, enabling students to later opt for a Modern Indian Language, such as Tenyidie, from Class 9 onwards.
He pointed out that Tenyidie is recognized as a Modern Indian Language, with academic offerings up to the Ph.D. level. Therefore, introducing Tenyidie as a second language in schools would benefit students, enabling them to learn it alongside their mother tongue.
Dr. Liezietsu emphasized that a living language must evolve, and he encouraged sub-dialect communities to contribute new words—especially those absent from current dictionaries—to enrich Tenyidie.
Citing Rev. V.K. Nuh’s The Naga Chronicle, which documents 64 Naga tribes, he suggested there may be over 70 distinct Naga languages. In the absence of a unified Naga language, Tenyidie has the potential to become one of the most widely spoken languages.
He described Ura Academy’s annual seminar as a non-political forum for discussing culture and traditions, urging broader participation from professionals to encourage meaningful dialogue.
President, CPO, Vezuhu Keyho, praised Ura Academy’s efforts in advancing Tenyidie and called for sustained initiatives. He stressed unity among Tenyimi tribes and the importance of expanding the language’s vocabulary.
APO President, Thejao Vihienuo, remarked that language is central to identity and commended Ura Academy’s leadership. He advocated for simplifying Tenyidie, extending its teaching, and celebrating cultural festivals to safeguard heritage.
President, Angami Baptist Church Council (ABCC), Rev. Savito Nagi, underscored the need for a common Naga language, similar to neighboring states, and urged the use of Tenyidie in homes and places of worship.
The event featured a choral performance by youth from Christian Revival Church, Chedema, and a special song by Avinuo Metha.
Earlier, the Ura Academy Rüpfhünuo Programme featured talks by Asano Sekhose (Retd. Chairperson, NBSE) and Director, TaFMA, GoN, Dr. Hovithal Sothu. The afternoon session included a panel discussion on “Usage of Tenyidie in Educational Institutions,” with panelists from Nagaland University and local schools. Dr. Rü-ünguso Kuotsu moderated the session, and Kikruneinuo Liezietsu, Joint Secretary of Ura Academy, provided the concluding remarks.