CM Neiphiu Rio, MP Supongmeren Jamir to grace three-day meet
Student-centric agenda and possible changes in conference format to be discussed
Chungtia Village is set to witness one of its largest gatherings as nearly 700 families open their homes to host over 1,700 delegates for the 70th Ao Students’ Conference, scheduled to be held from January 13 to 15, 2026, at Sabangya Ground under the theme “Strengthening Horizons.”
The conference, organised by the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM), marks a major milestone for Chungtia Village, which has been preparing for the event for the past nine years, according to Chungtia Students’ Union President Tsüknungtemsu Longchar.
The village has constructed a conference hall with a seating capacity of 2,200, while transport arrangements include seven buses for delegates and the issuance of car passes.
The event will also draw significant political and administrative presence. Supongmeren Jamir, Member of Parliament from Nagaland, will attend as the Inaugural Guest, while Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio is scheduled to be the Chief Guest.
The closing program will be graced by TN Mannen, Advisor & MLA for Law and Justice and Land Revenue.
Other dignitaries will also include Metsübo Jamir, Minister for Rural Development; Temjenmenba, Advisor & MLA for Transport and Technical Education; M Imkongla Jamir, IAS, Resident Commissioner of the Government of Karnataka in New Delhi; and Limasunep Jamir, IPS, Special Secretary (Home), Government of Nagaland.
AKM President Lanutoshi Aier informed that the conference will feature a panel discussion on “Navigating Education, Politics, Media, Religion and Entrepreneurship in a Changing World.” The panel will include Imkongnukla Ao, EAC Longleng; Lanuwabang, Director, NIELIT Kohima; K Temjen Jamir, Editor, Tir Yim Yim; and Rev Dr Wati Aier, Convenor, FNR.
In an effort to promote and preserve Ao language and culture, an Ao Spell Bee Competition will also be organised, particularly targeting younger generations. Additionally, a conference magazine featuring articles on contemporary student-related issues will be released during the event.
On the matter of resolutions and agenda, Aier said that key decisions, including possible changes in the number of conference days or delegates, as well as other student-centric agendas, would be subject to deliberation and approval during the conference.
“Next conference may see changes in days or the number of delegates, but this will be decided collectively during the conference,” he said.
Highlighting the spirit of the conference, Aier stated that the theme “Strengthening Horizons” aims at broadening perspectives, strengthening values, and equipping students to navigate a rapidly changing world, urging delegates to participate constructively and learn from one another.
The 70th edition of the AKM Conference will be telecast live on the AKM YouTube channel, allowing wider public participation beyond the venue.
