ROING, Apr 11: The Research Institute of World’s Ancient Traditions Cultures and Heritage (RIWATCH) organised an in-reach orientation programme at its campus on Saturday, with participation from around 120 BEd students and faculty members of Denning College for Teacher Education.
The programme aimed to sensitise future educators to the crucial role teachers play in preserving Arunachal Pradesh’s rich yet increasingly endangered indigenous languages. It highlighted how educators, as community leaders and knowledge transmitters, can help sustain linguistic heritage by integrating local languages into classroom teaching, encouraging intergenerational knowledge sharing, and fostering pride in indigenous identities among younger generations.
The visit, part of an academic field activity, offered participants insights into the work of researchers engaged with indigenous communities and the functioning of such institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Administrative Officer Harsh Singh emphasised the importance of connecting learners with their cultural roots to make education more inclusive and meaningful.
Dr MS Awan, Centre Head of RCML, delivered a detailed presentation on the institute’s initiatives, noting that indigenous languages are repositories of unique worldviews, traditional knowledge systems, and linguistic diversity. He pointed out that factors such as limited domains of use, language shift, disrupted intergenerational transmission, and the declining number of native speakers pose serious threats to these languages and their associated cultures.
The programme featured interactive sessions and discussions, highlighting the importance of documenting and revitalising linguistic diversity. A special screening of documentaries showcasing the festivals and cultures of Arunachal Pradesh was also organised.
Participants expressed appreciation for RIWATCH’s documentation efforts and lauded the institute for addressing the concerns of tribal communities.