Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today lauded the University of Science & Technology Meghalaya (USTM) for becoming the first private university in the North East to achieve an A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC).
Sangma paid a visit to the varsity campus in Ri-Bhoi today to congratulate the staff and students. He also unveiled a new statue of Mahatma Gandhi and visited the Central Instrumentation Centre at the PA Sangma International Block, named after his late father.
USTM is accredited with the NAAC, an autonomous body established by the University Grants Commission to assess and accredit institutions of higher education in the country and assesses universities according to seven criteria. This covers key factors such as infrastructure, emphasis on research and innovation, curriculum and faculty.
Speaking on the occasion, USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque informed the gathering that he is committed to the development of science and technology, education and research in the region and to make USTM a world-class university by 2030.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Meghalaya government and remembered its help and encouragement extended since the birth of USTM.
“A university becomes world-class not because of its infrastructure; it’s only by virtue of its research background and we are committed to that,” Hoque stated.
Addressing the gathering, Sangma said that the grade A accreditation by the NAAC is a significant milestone for the faculty and the university. He added that an A++ grade is surely not far away given the commitment and dedication of the university’s leadership.
