Shillong, Oct 16: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the Nongkharai Presbyterian Higher Secondary School at Umsohpieng today, serving as the Chief Guest at a ceremony attended by dignitaries, officials, and residents of the area.
In his address, the Chief Minister reflected on Meghalaya’s progress over the past seven and a half years, emphasizing the government’s commitment to welfare, infrastructure, and human resource development. He announced that Meghalaya is now the second fastest-growing economy in India after Tamil Nadu, with an average growth rate of 10% per year over the last three years.
Highlighting the government’s strong focus on education, the Chief Minister stated that ₹3,654 crores have been allocated to the sector, along with additional grants and support. He also spoke about reforms in teacher management, including structured salary systems for ad hoc and SSA teachers, aimed at improving efficiency and long-term educational outcomes.
Encouraging youth engagement, Sangma urged parents and teachers to guide young people towards sports, music, entrepreneurship, and social initiatives, and announced a special grant to provide musical instruments to students of Sijun Memorial School and Nongkharai Presbyterian Higher Secondary School. “Music enhances creativity and brain development—it’s essential we nurture it,” he said.
The Chief Minister congratulated the school’s Managing Committee, teachers, parents, and students for their dedication to education and community growth.
Guest of Honour Shri Methodius Dkhar, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, thanked the Chief Minister for his support and described the new school building as a major milestone for the constituency. He also paid tribute to former leaders (L) D.D. Lapang and (L) P.A. Sangma for their visionary role in the school’s development.
Other dignitaries included Shri Remington Gabil Momin, MLA of Rambrai–Jyrngam, Shri Lurshai Kharbani, MDC, and several government officials and community representatives.
Earlier, Rev. A. Nongbri, President of the School Managing Committee, welcomed the guests, and Rev. S.B. Lyngdoh, Secretary, shared the school’s journey from humble beginnings to the present, outlining proposals for further infrastructure and academic expansion, including hostel facilities for girls.
The programme concluded with cultural performances by students, celebrating the spirit of education and community growth.
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