UPPSALA, Nov 14: Banwang Losu, developer of the Wancho Script and Founder and Executive Director of the Wancho Literary Mission (WLM), Longding District, Arunachal Pradesh visited the prestigious Uppsala University, Sweden, from November 6-14 at the invitation of the University's Department of Linguistics and Philology to deliver a series of academic talks and engage in scholarly discussions on the development, documentation and promotion of the Wancho language.
The primary focus of the academic engagement was the historical journey and development of the Wancho Script, its technological advancement, the successful achievement of Unicode recognition, and its growing application in education, digital communication, linguistic research and institutional settings. Losu shared his experiences and research contributions towards developing a writing system for the Wancho language, establishing its digital foundation and expanding its use in formal education and academic publications. The discussions also explored the broader challenges of preserving indigenous and endangered languages through script development, digital technology, language documentation and community-based educational initiatives.
The academic programme was primarily coordinated and shaped by the Department of Linguistics and Philology, Uppsala University. 
The department’s contribution was particularly significant in facilitating this academic exchange. The department’s research engagement and continued academic interest have helped strengthen the connection between international linguistic research and the community-based efforts of the Wancho Literary Mission.
The Wancho Literary Mission, founded by Banwang Losu, is dedicated to the preservation, promotion, development and institutionalisation of the Wancho language, literature, script and cultural heritage. As its Founder and Executive Director, Losu has been leading initiatives in script development, Unicode implementation, textbook preparation, language education, linguistic documentation, research and the promotion of the Wancho language among younger generations. His work has contributed to bringing the Wancho language into the digital and academic domains while strengthening its presence in the formal education system.
Expressing his gratitude, Losu said that the faculty members and colleagues at Uppsala University were extremely helpful, supportive and cooperative throughout his visit. He particularly appreciated their warm hospitality, encouragement and willingness to provide every possible assistance during his academic stay. He conveyed his sincere thanks to the Department of Linguistics and Philology and the university community for providing such a valuable international academic platform.
The visit represents a significant milestone in promoting the Wancho language beyond regional and national boundaries. It is expected to encourage further academic collaboration, international research partnerships and greater global recognition of the Wancho language, its script and the cultural heritage of the Wancho community.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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