Officials and participants during the Prof A Lanunungsang Ao Memorial Lecture 2026 organised by NEISSR on April 13. (Photo Courtesy: NEISSR)
Chümoukedima, April 13 (MExN): The North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), Peace Centre, 7th Mile, organised the Prof A Lanunungsang Ao Memorial Lecture 2026 on April 13 to honour the legacy of one of Nagaland's most distinguished academicians.
NEISSR press release stated that the event brought together academicians, students, dignitaries, and members of the family of Prof Lanunungsang, commemorating his contributions to education, scholarship, peace-building, and social transformation.
Apok Jamir, Working President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee and former Member of Parliament, MLA, and Minister in the Government of Nagaland, was special guest and delivered the Memorial Lecture.
Delivering the Memorial Lecture, Jamir described the late professor as a “teacher of conscience” who inspired generations to think critically and act responsibly. He spoke about the growing challenge of fear psychosis in society and urged the youth to overcome fear and uphold truth with courage and integrity, emphasising that democracy thrives only when freedom of expression is protected.
Jamir reflected on Prof Lanunungsang's intellectual ideas, highlighting what he termed the “bullet and currency” challenges, where violence destroys life while overdependence on money weakens dignity and self-reliance. Stressing the importance of economic sovereignty alongside political sovereignty, he called for responsible citizenship rooted in values.
He elaborated on the concept of active peace, emphasising that peace must go beyond the absence of conflict and be built through understanding, reconciliation, and collective social responsibility. He also urged students to apply their education to address pressing issues such as water scarcity in Kohima, unemployment in Dimapur, and environmental degradation in Nagaland.
Encouraging the youth, Jamir emphasised the importance of balancing rooted identity with global knowledge, stating that “excellence is the highest form of patriotism.” He concluded by reminding students that education is a transformative tool and urged them to carry forward Prof Lanunungsang's legacy through meaningful action.
A message on behalf of the family was delivered by Merenkokba M Walling, who reflected on Prof Lanunungsang's life as a loving father and grandfather and highlighted his enduring values of peace, research, and dialogue.
Earlier, the programme commenced with an invocation by Rev Fr G L Khing, Vice-Principal, NEISSR. In his welcome address, Principal Dr Fr CP Anto paid tribute to Prof Lanunungsang, describing him as a visionary teacher, scholar, and institution builder whose legacy continues to guide NEISSR, highlighting his lifelong dedication to teaching, research, academic writing, mentorship, and his pivotal role in the establishment and growth of the institution. The programme was chaired by Dr Lily Sangpuii, Assistant Professor, NEISSR. The biography of Prof Ao was presented by Vizosu Kikhi, Assistant Professor, NEISSR.
