Rengma Nthenyi Academy Launched to Promote Language

The Rengma Nthenyi Literature Board Chunlikha (RNLBC) launched the *Rengma Nthenyi Academy* on August 25 at the NRCF Building in Chunlikha, marking a significant step for the preservation of the Nthenyi dialect.

Ar. Jwenga Seb, MLA and chairman of DPDB Tseminyu, attended as the special guest and emphasized the importance of linguistic identity, stating that *"others will know who you are through your language."* He noted that a strong grasp of one's native tongue lays the groundwork for learning other languages such as English, Hindi, and Nagamese, likening the mother tongue to *a large tree that provides shelter and fruit*.

The ceremony, chaired by Dr. Shasinlo Magh, included an overview of the dialect's progress by RNLBC chairman Khinyi Woch, a dedicatory prayer by Rev. Tusaya Kath, and a musical performance by the Kithagha Union Baptist Church Youth Ministry Choir. The academy's prospectus was also unveiled during the event.

Language Assistant Shelepfü Kath was honored with a *Proficiency Certificate* for his contributions to Nthenyi literature. The Nthenyi dialect, officially recognized by the Government of Nagaland in 2017, is set to benefit from the academy's mission to nurture reading and writing skills among future generations.