The 69th General Conference of the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) commenced here this evening under the theme “Education in Praxis” with Tongpang Ozükum, Minister of Housing and Mechanical, Government of Nagaland gracing the occasion as the inaugural guest.
The 69th edition of the AKM General Conference began with the hoisting of the AKM flag and six federating units – Asetkong, Jangpetkong, Japukong, Langpangkong, Ongpangkong and Tzürangkong ranges – by their respective presidents.
Tongpang Ozükum during his address urged the AKM to work towards preservation and promotion of the Ao language. Underscoring the importance of Ao language promotion, he noted that in the 74 years since the establishment of the Ao Literature Board, “we have just been able to introduce Ao as an honours subject at Fazl Ali College in 2023.” He challenged the AKM to make an attempt to introduce Masters and PhD degrees in Ao, as well as to introduce Ao subject in at least three Nagaland institutions.
He also urged the AKM to work for the improvement of the vernacular Ao Milen, the first newspaper in Nagaland which started in 1932 in view of the 100 years celebration of AKM and to further work towards making it a voice of the Ao people.
He also discussed the state and status of AKM’s brainchild, Mokokchung Law College. He encouraged the AKM to work toward the institution’s revival, noting that “something our parents founded should not be allowed to expire.”
Earlier, Onenpong, Information & Publicity Secretary of AKM took over the introduction session while the Akhoya Village Council delivered the welcome address. Rev T Lanu, Pastor Akhoya Baptist Church led the devotion and prayer; R Sunep Pongen, President, Central Nagaland Students’ Association gave the greetings message; and Imnatiba, Advisor, Industries & Commerce, Labour & Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Govt of Nagaland delivered a brief exhortation.
The conference was attended by 1357 delegates from 6 ranges and 18 sub-units and five colleges in Mokokchung district on the first night. The occasion was enthralled by the euphonious melodies from the Conference Choir and a special song from Sunep A. Jamir, front man of Tune Up Channel while the Akhoya Students’ Union showcased an allure of folk fusion performance during the opening ceremony.