Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Thursday unveiled several educational initiatives during the State Teachers’ Day celebration at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong.
Among the highlights was the launch of the CM IMPACT (Chief Minister’s Initiative to Maximize Pass Achievement and Classroom Triumph), a programme aimed at improving the low pass rates in Meghalaya’s SSLC exams.
This initiative will focus on supporting students, teachers, and schools, with features such as free guidebooks, targeted assistance for underperforming schools, and district-level monitoring.
In his speech, Sangma stressed the need for healthy competition among schools at the district level.
“Schools should be rewarded not just for results but also based on specific criteria. These schools can share best practices with others, creating a positive environment where they support each other,” he said.
He also proposed the introduction of exchange programs between schools in different districts to promote cultural understanding and broader exposure for students.
Additionally, Sangma launched the Curio Bee’s Learning Box to boost foundational literacy and numeracy for children aged 3-9 and the Science Discovery Kit for students in classes 6 to 8, designed to inspire young inventors. Booklets from SSA/DERT and the PM POSHAN Guidebook were also released.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the importance of incorporating local languages into the curriculum up to class five to preserve and promote the state’s rich linguistic heritage. “There is a necessity to include local dialects in the curriculum as this helps in preserving and nurturing our cultural identity,” he stated.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to education, Sangma said, “We remain focused on addressing infrastructure issues, modernising curricula, and providing teacher training for professional development. However, education is an ecosystem where teachers, parents, students, the government, and officials must work together to achieve our common goal.”
Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma, who served as the Guest of Honour, echoed the Chief Minister’s sentiments, urging collective effort towards improving educational outcomes in the state.
Fourteen teachers were recognised with the State Awards 2024 for their exemplary service, with special recognition given to Cathrene Nongrum, Assistant Teacher at the School & Centre for the Hearing Handicapped Children in Shillong, under the Special Awards 2024 category.
The event also included vibrant performances by students, further adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Dignitaries in attendance included Chief Secretary D P Wahlang, Commissioner & Secretary for Education Vijay Kumar Mantri, Education Advisor H M Shangpliang, and Director DSEL Swapnil Tembe.