The 61st general conference and All India Schools Festival kicked off today at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) with participation of more than 150 school children from various schools in the country.
The event was organised by the United Schools Organisation (USO) of India and hosted by USTM. The theme this year is ‘United Nations SGG 3: A Global Commitment to Well-Being’, referring to sustainable development goals.
This is also the first time that the general conference and festival are taking place at a university in Meghalaya.
The event has seen educators, students and dignitaries celebrate the importance of holistic education, unity and the pursuit of SDGs.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Nina Jain, USO secretary general, in the presence of Sunil Kumar, USO executive council member, USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque, USTM Vice-Chancellor Prof GD Sharma and others.
Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma spoke to the gathering via a pre-recorded video.
In his video message, the minister said, “This event exemplifies a sentiment that defines our incredible country. It is a celebration of knowledge, culture and unity- a testament to the power of institutions to bridge divides and foster understanding.”
The keynote address at the inaugural session of the conference was delivered by Sharma.
“This flagship event of USO is a unique gathering of teachers and students from schools across the country and marks a significant milestone as it takes place for the first time in a University in Meghalaya”, Jain said. “The festival is a historic event as it brings together the educational community in a grand celebration of talent, knowledge and cultural diversity. This event embodies the spirit of unity and learning, fostering a deeper sense of social responsibility among the youth.”
Referring to former President APJ Abdul Kalam’s famous quote, Hoque motivated the children and said that a dream is not what one sees in one’s sleep, a dream is something that does not let one sleep.
During the four-day event, participants will engage in activities that promote the ideals of the UN and moral values. Competition categories include Declamation (in Hindi and English), On-the-Spot Painting, Solo Dance, Group Dance, and One-Act Play. These competitions aim to inspire participants to think critically about global issues and to express their thoughts through creative and intellectual means.
