Ura Academy warns of native language decline in Nagaland

Kohima: The 56th Tenyidie Pederiichii seminar kicked off this Wednesday at Ura Academy in Kohima. Under the theme Paving Language Progression, the three day event focuses on the future of literature and local dialects within Tenyimia communities.

Ura Academy treasurer Aphelie Kesiezie opened the event by highlighting the growing displacement of native tongues. He explained that while Nagamese has become a convenient lingua franca across the state, its influence threatens the survival of traditional languages. Kesiezie pointed to the existence of three Nagamese Bible translations as evidence of this shifting linguistic landscape.

Drawing a comparison to the Karbi community, Kesiezie noted that while some groups successfully maintain their heritage despite using English or Assamese in schools, the pressure to abandon native dialects remains high. He expressed particular concern regarding the use of English within households, noting that many children are losing fluency in their mother tongues because parents prioritize English at home.

Kesiezie urged families to actively teach and speak their native languages to ensure they are passed down to future generations. He warned that communities risk losing their cultural identity if they do not make a conscious effort to prioritize their heritage.

The inaugural programme also included a prayer by Keneitsolie Keyho, musical performances by Ura Academy Ulikhri and Colored Keys, and a moment of silence for late Ura Academy pillar Khotuoü Liezietsu.