Mokokchung, Dec 19: Jangpetpkong Students Conference (JKTM)
Platinum Jubilee Celebration under the theme ‘Mita Yanglushidi’ (roughly
translated as Transforming Vigilantly) culminated today at Alongkima with
Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker, Nagaland Legislative Assembly serving as the
Special Guest and Arep Tzüdir, Pastor, Kohima Ao Baptist Church as the Speaker
on the topic “Tera Dangi Meyipdi” which translates as “Back to
the roots”.

Special Guest Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland
Legislative Assembly, emphasized the significance of the “Land of
Pioneers,” particularly the six ranges of the Ao region. He urged everyone
to reflect on their pride as Ao people and emphasized the need to collectively
work towards a common cause.

In the context of the 21st century and a rapidly evolving
global society, Longkumer highlighted the inevitability of change and
encouraged introspection on how the Ao people understand their birthplace, the
“Land of Pioneers.” He emphasized unity, stating that the tag is a
result of collective efforts from Ao people across generations and professions.

Longkumer acknowledged the historical contributions of Ao
people, including the introduction of Christianity in Nagaland and achievements
in education, bureaucracy, sports, and literature. He challenged the community
to live up to the characteristics of pioneers—being brave, bold, hardworking,
innovative, and solution-oriented.

Speaking in line with the theme “Mita
Yanglushidi,” he stressed the importance of knowledge, belief, speaking
skills, and overall self-improvement. Longkumer encouraged students to discover
their talents, reminding them of the hardworking nature of their forefathers
who earned the title “Land of Pioneers.”

He emphasized individual revival, urging introspection and
preparation for leadership roles. Longkumer addressed challenges in the
Jangpetpkong range, specifically poor road connectivity and electricity
expansion, assuring stability.He highlighted the state’s commitment to meritocracy and
transparency. Longkumer challenged students to choose between development and
employment, urging them to seek exposure experiences outside Nagaland.

Encouraging parents to have confidence in sending their
children outside the state, Longkumer questioned dependence on Kohima and
emphasized the need for self-sufficiency. He concluded by urging the community
to reform themselves and build on the legacy of being the land of Pioneers.

Dr. Walunir, Convenor of the Editorial Board, presided over
the presentation of the Platinum Jubilee Souvenir Book, which was released by
the Special Guest, Sharingain Longkumer, Speaker of the Nagaland Legislative
Assembly.

During the event, Speaker Arep Tzüdir, Pastor of Kohima Ao
Baptist Church, spoke on the topic “Tera Dangi Meyipdi,” while
Changki Kaketshir Telongjem presented the Jubilee Song.

In the second session, Dr. L. Tongpang Longkumer, Professor in the Department of Agronomy at NU SASRD, Medziphema, spoke on the topic
“Tejakleni ilongdi,” which translates to “Forge Ahead.”