The Meghalaya government is implementing technological interventions to address the state’s educational challenges, despite having limited internet connectivity in certain areas. Education Minister Rakkam A. Sangma highlighted that while 80-90% of villages in Meghalaya are covered by internet services, around 10-15% still face connectivity issues. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is leading efforts to expand mobile and internet access across the state to ensure equitable educational opportunities.
Speaking to the media, Minister Sangma said, “About 80 to 90% of the villages are covered with internet, but there are still 10 to 15% where mobile connectivity isn’t up to the desired level. The Chief Minister is addressing the issue, and I am confident that mobile connectivity will soon reach every corner of the state so that education, or any other purpose, doesn’t suffer.”
As part of its modernization efforts, the government plans to introduce QR codes for key subjects such as Social Science, Science, and Mathematics from the next academic session. These QR codes will enable students to access conceptual explanations and solved board exam questions instantly. “The state government is planning to roll out QR codes for these subjects, where all topics will be explained conceptually and solutions provided for board and textbook questions,” Sangma said. He added that connectivity issues would no longer pose a problem as most areas in the state are now well connected.
The government is also prioritizing the implementation of smart classrooms to advance digital education. “The digital and online education revolution is inevitable. Smart classes are in the pipeline, and Meghalaya is working hard to install them wherever possible,” Sangma stated. He stressed the importance of embracing technology, noting that NCERT textbooks are already available online. “With efficient internet connectivity, any teacher or student can easily access textbooks and resources. Although we aren’t fully there yet, technology has progressed to the point where learning materials are accessible at the touch of a button.”
To support these initiatives, the state has introduced the Meghalaya Telecom Infrastructure (Amendment) Policy 2024. This policy aims to improve telecom infrastructure, streamline the installation of mobile towers, accelerate the rollout of 5G infrastructure, and facilitate the laying of Optical Fiber Cable (OFC). These measures are designed to ensure that quality telecom services are available to all, bridging the digital divide in the state.
Despite ongoing progress, the latest License Service Areas (LSA) report indicates that no district in Meghalaya has yet achieved 100% broadband connectivity. However, the government’s commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure is expected to close this gap, ensuring that students and citizens across the state benefit from improved educational resources and connectivity.