The District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Tuensang, observed International Translation Day on September 30 with 104 student-teachers and faculty members, focusing on the preservation and promotion of tribal languages and dialects in line with the vision of NEP 2020.
DIET Principal Peter Libenthung highlighted Nagaland’s linguistic diversity as an important part of its cultural heritage and stressed the role of future teachers in preserving tribal dialects in classrooms. He also emphasised that linguistic and cultural awareness can help children develop a sense of identity and belonging while fostering respect for other languages and cultures.
As part of the programme, participants worked in groups to translate terms related to kinship, seasons, weekdays and months from English into their respective tribal dialects. A quiz followed, with language experts testing representatives of other groups on the translated terms.
Winners received cash prizes, while all participants were presented certificates.
In his closing remarks, Libenthung highlighted concerns over language endangerment and extinction and called for collective efforts to safeguard indigenous languages and dialects for future generations.