Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma Inaugurates First State-Owned University, Captain Williamson Sangma State University

The university is designed to fill a critical gap in the state’s education system, which lacked a government-owned university for over 5 decades.

Meghalaya achieved a major milestone today with the inauguration of its first state-owned university, Captain Williamson Sangma State University.

The institution was inaugurated by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, in the presence of Speaker Thomas A. Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Snaiwbhalang Dhar, and other prominent dignitaries, highlighting the government’s commitment to expanding higher education opportunities in the state.

Named after first Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Captain Williamson A. Sangma and constructed at a cost of Rs 16.96 crore the university is expected to be a beacon of academic excellence and research.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Minister Sangma highlighted the crucial role the university will play in meeting the state’s growing educational needs, offering students quality higher education opportunities. He reiterated the government’s steadfast commitment to prioritizing education in Meghalaya.

“Today indeed is a red letter day for the state. It will be a day that will be remembered as one of the most important turning points in higher and technical education in the state. Every journey begins with a single step. Today marks the beginning of a long journey, and with determination, we will move the university and the state forward. This is our commitment. Education has been a major challenge for us. 7 years ago, when I took office as Chief Minister, I promised to make the education sector top priority. This university today stands as a testament to that promise,” said Chief Minister Sangma.

Initially envisioned as a technical university in 2011, its mandate was expanded in 2022 to include both technical and non-technical disciplines, broadening its scope to affiliate a diverse range of colleges.

The university is designed to fill a critical gap in the state’s education system, which lacked a government-owned university for over 5 decades.

The institution will affiliate colleges across Meghalaya, enabling students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs without the need to undertake the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), unlike colleges under North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU).

The government also announced plans for a Shillong campus, aimed at improving access for students from the Khasi and Jaintia Hills regions.

Additionally, several colleges, including Williamnagar College and Captain Williamson Sangma College, formally submitted their applications for affiliation during the event.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Vasanthi Vijayakumar, highlighted the institution’s focus on delivering quality education, fostering research, and promoting holistic student development.

The university has already gained recognition from the University Grants Commission (UGC) under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, validating its role in the higher education landscape.

Beyond the launch, the government outlined measures to address broader challenges in the education sector, including low enrolment, administrative inefficiencies, and the need for accountability in schools.

These initiatives aim to strengthen the foundation of elementary and secondary education, ensuring a seamless transition to higher learning.

As the university begins its operations, it represents not just an educational institution but a significant stride toward a more inclusive and progressive academic future for Meghalaya.

By providing local students access to quality education and research opportunities, it seeks to drive long-term growth and development in the region.

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