The Sümi Discussion Forum (SDF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of noted educationist and scholar Dr I Lozhevi Sema on Monday, April 27, 2026.
In a condolence message, the forum described Dr Sema as a visionary pioneer whose lifelong dedication to the promotion of Sütsa language and literature left an indelible mark on the Sümi community.
Born on May 27, 1934, Dr Sema graduated from Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung, and later retired as Director of the School Education Department, Nagaland, in 2001. He was among the first members of the Sümi Literature Board (SLB) to hold Bachelor of Teaching and B.A. degrees, and played a key role in integrating Sütsa into the academic curriculum.
He authored the landmark Tsaye (grammar) in the early 1990s, which remains in use and is expected to be introduced at the university level. He also compiled the first Tsashe (Sümi dictionary), contributing around 20,000 words, including more than 2,000 Sütsa-to-English translations.
His efforts helped introduce Sütsa textbooks for Classes 9 and 10, later extending to Classes 11 and 12 and university courses.
Dr Sema was also a founding member of the Nagaland Missionary Movement and a pioneer of Mt. Olive College, Kohima. He served the Sümi Literature Board for 50 years from 1971 to 2020, including 29 years as a member and 21 years as secretary.
Among his notable works are Sümi Tsashe (Anglo-Sümi Dictionary) and Küghakiche Eno Xülhe, a collection of folklores and stories for higher secondary students, besides several textbooks from primary to university levels.
He received an honorary doctorate from the International Institute of Arts and Theology, Kolkata, in 2019, the SLB Certificate of Excellence in 2022, and the Certificate of Amheghi Küxü (Living Heritage) in 2025.
The SDF extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and reaffirmed its commitment to carrying forward his legacy.