To commemorate the father of Khasi Alphabet, Rev. Thomas Jones a discussion on “U Synñiang U Thomas Jones sha ka Jaitbynriew Khasi” (Thomas Jones and his contribution to the Khasi society) was held today in Jowai.
The programme was organised by the Khasi Authors’ Society (KAS) and the Thomas Jones Synod College and attended by members of the society, students, teachers, authors and others.
Senior Executive Secretary of the KJP Synod Mihngi, Rev. K Pariat attended the programme as the chief guest. During his speech the lauded the efforts and contribution of Khasi authors in the Khasi-Jaintia region and said they are the upholders of the customs and traditions and especially in the growth of Khasi literature.
Rev Pariat highlighted the works of the founding Father of Khasi Alphabet and pioneer of the Welsh Presbyterian Mission and said that Jones arrival at Sohra in 1841 will be remembered for his role his role in Khasi literature, education, agriculture and economic upliftment of the Khasis.
KAS Finance Secretary, Phrikshon Kharshiing highlighted about the emergence of the author’s society in 1979 and said the fight for inclusion of Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution is on.
Noted author K.W. Nongrum, Principal of the College Dr. D.G. Lyngdoh, KAS President Dr. D.R.L Nonglait, KAS (Jowai) Vice President MM Thaiang and others were present on the occasion.
Meanwhile, members of various pressure groups forces shut institutions and banks that were open for not granting holiday in honour of the founding Father of the Khasi Alphabet and pioneer of the Welsh Presbyterian Mission in Meghalaya’s Khasi Hills.
Thomas Jones Day was only made a holiday from 2018. It marks the arrival of the Welsh missionary, who gave the Khasi language its present written form, to the Khasi-Jaiñtia Hills in the 19th century.
