Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today inaugurated the state’s first owned university–Captain Williamson Sangma State University—at Balalgre-Damalgre in South West Garo Hills
The university has been named after the founding Chief Minister of the state, Captain Williamson A Sangma.
The university was in the news when education minister Rakkam A Sangma said that the government decided to inaugurate the university with a Christian prayer service and argued that Hindu rituals were used in the inauguration of the new Parliament building in New Delhi, so Christian ones can be used here.
Meghalayans from all walks pour scorn on the plan stating the decision goes against the constitutional values of secularism enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
No consecration took place during the inauguration except for an opening prayer by Rev Wetterfield Marak and benediction by Fr. Januarius.
In his inaugural speech, the chief minister called it a “red letter day” and said the university will not only cater to higher education but would also promote research and innovation, ensuring transformative change in the educational scenario of the state.
He said that the operationalisation of the university is a commitment of the government for the people of the state. “In over 50 years of existence, the state had no university of its own. The establishment of a state-owned university is testimony of our government’s initiative to promote growth and development of the education sector”, the chief minister said.
“This university is not just a name; it is a promise. A promise of hope, growth, and limitless possibilities for the people of Meghalaya,” he added.
The chief minister said all colleges within the state could opt to apply for affiliation to the state-owned university to avoid appearing for Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for under-graduation and post graduation courses. He added that CUET would be applicable to colleges affiliated to the North-Eastern Hill University in Shillong.
“I urge the colleges to take this opportunity and affiliate with Captain Williamson Sangma State University,” Sangma said.
He also announced that the Shillong Campus of the university will be established, which will facilitate administration and accessibility to students from Khasi and Jaintia Hills region of the state.
He said that the government is addressing the challenges in the education sector and will rationalise measures for ensuring accountability and administration of quality education services in the state. “The road ahead is challenging, but with the right team, vision, and determination, we will overcome these hurdles,” he added.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Speaker Thomas A. Sangma and the education minister spoke on the occasion and underscored the need for continuous efforts to uplift the state’s education sector.
Newly appointed vice chancellor of the university Prof. Vasanthi Vijayakumar assured that the university will deliver quality education and promote research and foster holistic development.
Commissioner and Secretary Education Department, Vijay Kumar Mantri underscored the importance of the university in bridging the education gap and contributing to Meghalaya’s growth. “This is a day that will be remembered in the history of our state,” he said.
The launch programme also witnessed the formal submission of affiliation applications from various colleges, they are : Williamnagar College, Williamnagar, Captain Williamson Sangma College, Baghmara, Rongjeng Model College, Rongjeng, Ampati Degree College, Ampati, PA Sangma Abong Noga College, Tura, Mason Philips Academy, Tura, Mirriam Rural Women’s College and Tura Christian College.
