MTNews: AKM was conceived in 1929 with the theme, ‘For the Nation’. Would you agree that the working of the AKM over the years has justified its theme?
Nungdokyanger: Absolutely yes. When we say ‘For the nation’, it can mean a lot of things because the word ‘Nation’ encompasses varied aspects about a community. Nations can denote every facet of political, social, economic, educational, religious and cultural life of the people. Therefore, looking from that point of view, it is for everyone to see and know that the AKM, over the past more than nine decades, have been very vocal in fighting for the rights for the Naga community, particularly the Aos. The AKM has never shied away from any issue that confronted the Naga people and it is determined to fight for the just cause of the Nagas – political, social, educational and economic rights – now and even in the future. Therefore, the core values and the functioning of the AKM, with the blessings of the whole Ao community, have been for the Naga people and promotion of our people as a ‘Nation’ to the outside world.
MTNews: AKM is the apex student body of the Aos. Can you elaborate a little more on its roles and its functions?
Nungdokyanger: As the apex student body of the Ao community mandated by the whole Ao people living everywhere in the world, the AKM has many roles and responsibilities to carry out in the society. As a student organization, the chief concern for the AKM, of course, is the welfare of the students, their future and wellbeing. However, the AKM, which comprises the young, energetic and intelligent group of people in the society, is often expected to take up different responsibilities besides the call for looking after the welfare of the student community. Since its inception in 1929, the AKM has been actively involved in different issues confronting Naga society. To name a few, the AKM is publishing a daily vernacular newspaper ‘Ao Milen’ till date, it has also established a Law College in Mokokchung, the AKM has also initiated a successful drive against the influx of illegal migrants in Mokokchung, it is also conducting regular free coaching for ‘failed’ Class X students for the past many years. Apart from that, the AKM has always been cooperating with like-minded organizations, be it in the state or outside, when it comes to common issues of social, political, educational or economic interests. Therefore, if we have to dwell on the roles and functions of the AKM, it would take a book or a volume to narrate it. In short, the roles and functions of the AKM is never static, it is always evolving according to the needs of the people; and fortunately, the AKM is a very versatile organization that can always adapt and rise up to every occasion as and when the need arises.
MTNews: The RPP recently exposed how backdoor appointment is rampant in Nagaland through a leaked WhatsApp chat. Much to our surprise, many organizations including the AKM maintained their silence. Would you like to comment on the issue?
Nungdokyanger: When it comes to backdoor appointments, the AKM is of the opinion that it is endemic in Nagaland and should be rooted out completely. That’s why, the AKM, as a constituent of the NSF, is strongly pressuring the State Government to make the NSSB functional at the earliest. Unless the NSSB functions as a fully autonomous body, we do not see how backdoor appointments can be done away with. With regard to the recent allegations by the RPP about backdoor appointments, the AKM is also much concerned and is closely following the matter.
MTNews: As a leader of the student body, how do you think the students should respond when they are being deprived of their rights due to rampant corruption prevailing in Nagaland?
Nungdokyanger: They should be steadfast in their resolve and understanding that what is due to them should be given by the authority in concern. They should be ready to agitate in a democratic manner. They can also file RTI or PIL. They should explore every possible means like consultation with organizations like AKM to fight for their cause. After all, the student bodies are there mainly for the cause of the students.
MTNews: Together with the World Bank, the Nagaland government has initiated the Nagaland Education Project- the Lighthouse (NECTAR). Do you have any idea how many government schools in Mokokchung will be a part of the project? If yes, could you kindly give us a little detail?
Nungdokyanger: So far there is no definitive report from the government side to AKM about the number of government schools in Mokokchung that will be covered under this project.
MTNews: If there is one thing you wish the AKM can do for the welfare of the students and society in general, what will it be?
Nungdokyanger: One thing that really troubles my heart is the indifference of our younger generation towards the importance of learning, writing and speaking our mother tongue. As such, the AKM has been conducting different literary competitions to promote our mother tongue. I wish this program of the AKM will bear its fruits in the days to come.
MTNews: Would you agree that AKM needs certain changes?
Nungdokyanger: Every aspect of human life is prone to change. AKM also cannot remain static and be confined within the realms of the past. And as I said earlier, the AKM is a very versatile organization that is always evolving and adapting to the changes of time. Therefore, yes, AKM also needs changes according to the needs of the present moment and it always does as long as the interests of the students and the society are not compromised in any manner.
MTNews: There’s this saying, “To change the system, you need to get into the system.” Do you agree? Why or why not?
Nungdokyanger: That saying can be quite subjective in nature. However, I feel that if an individual, if only he is determined and strongly believes that a change is needed, then why not, change can happen without even getting into the system. To drive home my point, I would like to remind everyone about the power of a simple ‘prayer’ either to God or to an authority. Change does happen without having to get into the system.
MTNews: Leave a message for our readers.
Nungdokyanger: In this modern world, society needs smart and innovative students. If one wants to excel in life, one must give extra efforts and walk the extra mile to achieve one’s dream. Our society is just a part of the ecosystem where every action or inaction of an individual or society affects one another. Therefore, as responsible citizens, let us all understand that we are here for a reason and to make our society progressive, we have to do our part dedicatedly; otherwise, we would be greatly failing in the eyes of God and to our society. Kuknalim!