Shillong, Dec 19: The District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Sohra, commemorated its 25th Anniversary under the theme “Enriching Minds; Transforming Lives”, celebrating a quarter-century of dedicated service in strengthening teacher education and elementary education in Meghalaya.
The silver jubilee programme was graced by Shri Lahkmen Rymbui, Minister of Education, IPR etc Government of Meghalaya, as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included Shri Balajied Kupar Synrem, MLA Shella; Shri Gavin M. Mylliem, MLA Sohra; Shri R. Rapthap, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Education Department; Shri M. A. Challam, MCS i/c Sohra Civil Sub- Division, Shri P. B. Lartang, Jt. Director DERT; Principals of all DIETs in Meghalaya; faculty members, alumni (past and present), and students.
In his keynote address, Shri Lahkmen Rymbui highlighted the dynamic and evolving nature of the teaching profession. He stated that since 2012, the Government of Meghalaya has actively encouraged youth to take up teaching as a profession by providing stipends and institutional support.
He noted that education has undergone major transformation over the past seven and a half years, with young learners placed at the centre of policy priorities. Referring to the Supreme Court judgment, he reiterated that Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) is compulsory, even for teachers with 25–30 years of service, as teaching requires continuous learning, re-learning, and professional upgradation.
The Minister emphasized the crucial role played by DIET Sohra in teacher training and capacity building, especially in the context of the National Education Policy (NEP), which mandates that by 2030–34 all teachers must possess a four-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) qualification. He described DIETs as relevant, multidisciplinary institutions aligned with national educational reforms.
He further drew attention to the existing disparity in pay and service benefits among teachers in some Government-aided colleges, stating that despite similar qualifications, experience, and dedication, differences still exist.
He stressed that quality teaching, commitment, and accountability must remain central, and assured that the Government is aware of such issues and is working towards systemic reforms.
The Minister also spoke on rationalisation of schools to ensure a minimum of five teachers per institution, and announced that 2,800 teaching posts will be filled in Meghalaya through a competitive process conducted by NEST. He encouraged aspiring teachers to adopt a competitive mindset, uphold dedication, and embrace hard work, stating that there is no substitute for hard work.
He informed that the State Cabinet has approved the establishment of the Meghalaya Teachers’ Training Academy, acknowledging that education is dynamic and teachers must continuously upgrade their skills. While acknowledging the growing role of Artificial Intelligence, he emphasized that AI will not replace human thinking, but AI literacy will be imparted to keep teachers and students future-ready.
Shri Balajied Kupar Synrem, in his address, emphasized that nation- building begins with quality teachers. He stated that strong educational foundations depend on capable and committed teachers who can guide and inspire young minds, and institutions like DIET play a pivotal role in shaping the future generation.
Shri Gavin M. Mylliem highlighted that the primary objective of DIET is to strengthen elementary education through effective teacher training. He fondly recalled the contributions of past faculty members, students, and staff who have contributed to the growth of the institution over the years.
He congratulated DIET Sohra for being selected as a Centre of Excellence in 2023 by the Ministry of Education and noted that the MDA Government has accorded top priority to education, allocating nearly 15% of the State’s total budget, amounting to ₹3,500 crore, to the education sector.
He urged all stakeholders to extend their support to the Government in addressing challenges in the education sector, stating that educational reform is a gradual and collective process.
Earlier, the Principal of DIET Sohra, Smt. A.M Sohliya, presented a brief history of the institution, tracing its establishment in 2000 and highlighting its journey as a teacher training institute, its academic contributions, and community service initiatives, including social outreach activities.
As part of the celebrations, a 25th Anniversary Souvenir was released, teachers and faculty members who have served the institution over the past 25 years were felicitated, and cultural programmes were presented by students and alumni. The programme concluded with the cutting of the anniversary cake and unveiling of a commemorative plaque, marking 25 years of committed service to education and society.
