Not dwelling much on the ongoing turmoil at the North Eastern Hills University (NEHU), Rajya Sabha MP Wanwei Roy Kharlukhi today remarked that “crises are blessings” and that “greatness often emerges from trials.”
The MP was at NEHU on the occasion of its 52nd University Day.
He recalled his student days at NEHU and highlighted the university’s role in shaping not only careers but also character.
Citing examples like NEHU’s Vice-Chancellor In-Charge Prof. Sherwin May Sungoh and himself, he stated, “We are all products of NEHU.”
Sungoh acknowledged the difficult phase NEHU has traversed in recent months but highlighted the unwavering dedication of faculty and staff who worked beyond the call of duty to uphold academic integrity.
“We are on our way to reclaiming the glory of NEHU,” she asserted and pledged her commitment to steering the university toward academic excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth.
NEHUNSA President Wandondor R. Synrem called for unity in action to restore the university’s former glory, crediting the student community for initiating positive change.
Echoing similar sentiments, NEHUTA President Prof. Lakhon Kma stated that the University had experienced nearly a decade of challenges but now was the time to rise. He commended Prof. N. Saha and Prof. Sungoh for stepping into leadership roles during critical times and steering the university with courage and determination.
NEHUSU General Secretary Toniho S. Kharsati acknowledged both the achievements and the challenges faced by NEHU. He lamented the university’s recent drop in NIRF rankings—from among the top 20 to the 101-150 band in 2024—and called for introspection and collective resolve.
Kharsati stated there are visible improvements in infrastructure and academic activities under the guidance of Sungoh.
During the celebration, NEHU released its anthem, “Rise Up and Build,” composed by Dr. Uttam Sharma and penned by Prof. Shobhan N. Lamare. The anthem embodies the university’s spirit and vision.
Lamare elaborated on the inspiration behind the anthem, emphasising the significance of the university’s motto and the symbolism of the rising sun. He noted that the anthem draws from the natural beauty and stories of the land, aiming to inspire the youth to take charge and serve the nation.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from the teaching, non-teaching, and student communities, underscoring the collective spirit that drives the university forward.
A major highlight of the day was the release of the university compendium, “Five Decades of NEHU: A Glorious Journey and Way Ahead”, which is a chronicle of NEHU’s evolution and its vision for the future.