Mawlai MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang today questioned whether the state government had consulted or adhered to All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) guidelines while constructing the Shillong Government College of Engineering.
His query stemmed from concerns raised by AICTE experts, who advised the college authorities to address certain infrastructure deficiencies.
Marbaniang, a former academic before he joined politics, highlighted these concerns in the ongoing Assembly session, stating, “As far as my knowledge is concerned, before constructing any building, classroom, or laboratory, specific guidelines must be followed. Did the government consult or adhere to AICTE guidelines before constructing the college, or were adjustments required later?”
In response, Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma informed the house that the construction of key buildings, including the academic block, administrative block and hostels had been completed and inaugurated by the Chief Minister in January 2023. He also assured that essential services, such as water supply and electrical connections, were in place.
On December 26, 2024, the college applied for AICTE approval to introduce two technical courses – Civil Engineering and Electrical Engineering. Following this, AICTE conducted two scrutiny meetings on January 22 and February 4 this year, during which experts recommended compliance with specific infrastructure requirements. These concerns are currently being addressed.
When asked about the commencement of academic sessions, the minister expressed the government’s intention to start classes as soon as possible following AICTE approval.
