Revving up their bikes, the thrill of the ride and the joy of giving, that’s what marked the memorable reunion of students of St Anthony’s Higher Secondary School, Shillong on Saturday.
The St Anthony’s School Past Pupils’ Association brought a jeep load of school essentials for a rural school, showcasing their commitment to giving back.
The reunion christened “Ride to Unite 2.0” was flagged off by the current Principal of the school, Fr Anthony Kharkongor.
With the rain relentless, it however did not dampen the spirit of the alumni of the school.
The alumni who attended the reunion were as old as the 1994 batch to the 2024, thereby making it an event to remember.
As they set off on their journey, the riders were greeted by breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush green forests. The scenic route wound its way through quaint villages and winding roads, providing ample opportunities for the riders to take in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
As they rode, the alumni chatted and laughed, reminiscing about old times and sharing stories of their lives since graduation.
The bike ride proved to be a great way to break the ice and build camaraderie among the group, with many former classmates rekindling old friendships and making new ones.
The alumni had planned a special initiative to donate school items to a rural school, which they had been planning for months. As they arrived at Perkseh Seng Khasi LP School, Tyrsad they were warmly welcomed by the students and teachers.
The school started in 2009 from Nursery to class 5 has 34 students.
Aiborson Umdor, chairman of the school said that the objective of starting the school was to give education to students in the area.
“The presence of this school is a boon for children coming from underprivileged backgrounds. The school’s management had decided that it would not charge any fees from the children,” Umdor said.
He also informed that the 5 teachers employed by the school are well qualified as per government norms.
“These teachers impart education to the children voluntarily and we pay whatever we can to them,” the school chairman said.
Umdor informed that the school managing committee has sent a proposal to the government estimating Rs. 25 lakh for a new school building.
He also urged the MLA of Mawphlang, Matthew Beyondstar Kurbah to render assistance to the school.
The school chairman said that he wants the government to take over the school since it is difficult for them to generate funds on their own.
Umdor said that the school first received assistance in 2103 with an amount of Rs. 2 lakh from the then MP Vincent H Pala and in 2014 another amount of Rs. 1.5 lakh through the SRWP from then legislator Kennedy C Khyriem.
The school chairman also said that it also received grants of Rs. 50000 on two occasions – 2010 and 2016 from then MDC Lamphrang Blah.
