Kuzholuzo Nienu and others during the launching of Institute of Chokri Literature in Kohima on February 17. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | February 17
In a significant step towards the promotion and academic advancement of the Chokri language in Phek district, the Institute of Chokri Literature (ICL) was formally launched at the conference hall of Red Cross building, Kohima on February 17.
Established as an initiative of the Chokri Chakhesang Literature Board (CCLB), the institute will focus on developing, preserving, and promoting the Chokri dialect, including the creation of textbooks and other resources.
This milestone, achieved just days before the observance of International Mother Language Day, underscores the community’s commitment to protecting and nurturing their linguistic heritage for future generations.
Gracing the occasion as the special guest, MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu described the launching of the ICL as a big milestone achievement for CCLB. He stressed on the need to do more research on strengthening Chokri language, promoting indigenous language and literature activities. The MLA called for evolving a comprehensive target for the holistic growth of the institute.
Razouseyi Vese, Director, Directorate of School Education, Nagaland informed that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasises language development through a focus on mother tongue instruction and the promotion of Indian languages to enhance cognitive skills and cultural preservation. In this, Vese stressed the need to give importance towards local languages in maintaining cultural identity.
Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) President, Vezuhu Keyho also stressed on the need to speak and popularize the mother tongue, which, he said is critical for protecting cultural identity and maintaining social cohesion. Keyho expressed delight over a huge rush for admission in this ICL, wherein 81 candidates had enrolled for the first batch.
Classes to start from February 18
In keynote address, Dr Zokho Venuh, Principal, ICL informed that the Institute will now function from a temporary centre at Capital College of Higher Education, Kohima.
Venuh thanked the efforts of Thupukutho Lohe in conceptualizing and completing the process of getting formal permission from the government to start the ICL and later graciously handed over to CCLB.
The ICL will offer six months certificate course and 1-year diploma course and the classes will start from February 18. The teaching faculty for ICL include Dr Vekhruzo Keyho, Dr Sekholu Tetseo, Vesavolu Rhakho and Niiveta Khesoh.
Class IX textbooks developed
Meanwhile, Venuh informed that the CCLB has finally developed Class IX textbooks (Chokri as a subject), which has received approval from the concerned authority.
In this respect, GHS Japan Riba, GHS Phek Village, GHSS Chozuba, GHS Thuvopisu, GHS Yoruba and GHS Kutsapo, have taken the decision to introduce the same in the current academic session.
Earlier, the launching programme was led by Vekhozo, Chairman, CCLB while dedicatory prayer was pronounced by Rev Thujoveyi Veswuh. Vetsuno Ringa & friends performed folk song. The programme concluded with thanks by Vethikhoyi Khamo, Vice President, CCLB and thanksgiving prayer by Rev Vezopa Rhakho.
Several dignitaries including former minister Zachilhu Ringa Vadeo, NLA former speaker Dr Chotisuh Sazo also present at the launching programme.
