Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma reaffirms education as the government’s top priority, stressing systemic challenges and the need for child-centric reforms during the inauguration of Ramakrishna Mission College in Sohra. He promises improved infrastructure and stronger collaboration for quality education across the state.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday reiterated that education remains one of the highest priorities for the state government, even as the sector continues to face longstanding structural and logistical challenges.
Speaking at a function in Sohra, the Chief Minister highlighted the need for systemic reforms, strengthened educational practices, and improved infrastructure to ensure quality learning outcomes for children across the state.
Addressing educators, local leaders, and community representatives, Sangma admitted that Meghalaya’s education sector has become “highly complex” due to deep-rooted structural issues. “Systemic structural problems have made the education sector extremely complicated. Despite substantial spending, these persistent challenges have hindered our ability to deliver the quality of education we aim for,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister noted that the government has already initiated efforts to streamline and restructure the system, including rationalisation of schools—an ongoing exercise aimed at improving efficiency, teaching capacity, and resource distribution. He expressed confidence that such reforms, though gradual, will pave the way for steady improvements over time.
Child-Centric Approach at the Core of Reforms
Emphasising the importance of placing students at the centre of decision-making, Sangma called on school authorities, teachers, and management committees to adopt a child-first approach. “Let the student be the guiding force—not just what benefits teachers or institutions, but what truly serves the child,” he said. According to him, all policies, resource allocations, and academic reforms must ultimately be shaped around the well-being and development of students.
Ramakrishna Mission College Inaugurated
The Chief Minister was delivering his address at the inauguration of the Ramakrishna Mission College in Sohra—the first college established by the Ramakrishna Mission in the entire Northeast. The newly inaugurated institution is affiliated with the Captain Williamson Sangma State University.
The inaugural event saw attendance from several notable dignitaries, including Sohra MLA Gavin Mylliem, Shella MLA Balajied Kupar Synrem, and Swami Achyuteshananda, Trustee of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. The dignitaries highlighted the historic significance of the college and its potential role in transforming higher education opportunities in the rural and hilly regions of Meghalaya.
Mission’s Contribution to Education Acknowledged
Acknowledging the longstanding contributions of the Ramakrishna Mission in Meghalaya, Sangma praised its unwavering commitment to holistic education and value-based learning. “The Ramakrishna Mission nurtures children to become disciplined, hardworking, empathetic citizens with strong values,” he said. The Chief Minister emphasised that institutions like the Mission play a crucial role in shaping character, promoting discipline, and enabling young students to become responsible members of society.
He reiterated that human capital remains the most valuable investment a government or society can make. “Investing in human resource development is the greatest investment we can make—for our state’s future and for the generations to come,” he said.
Infrastructure Concerns to Be Addressed
Sangma also assured that the infrastructure challenges faced by several Mission-run schools, particularly those located in remote and difficult terrain, will be taken up on a priority basis. Issues such as poor road connectivity, inadequate electricity supply, and shortage of drinking water would be examined individually and resolved through coordinated government support.
“These are genuine difficulties, and the government will work with you to find solutions on a case-by-case basis,” he said. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Mission for its tireless service, especially in regions where access to quality education remains limited.
Government–Mission Collaboration Strengthened
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with institutions that work for educational upliftment. “We will work with you to ensure quality education for the children and youth of our state,” he said.
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Sangma added that through collective effort, Meghalaya can overcome its educational challenges and create a more effective, inclusive, and child-focused system.
