Shillong, March 27: The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, today attended the Closing Ceremony of College Week 2026 and the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of Synod College Shillong held at the Students’ Field, Jaiaw.
In his address, the Chief Minister lauded the institution’s legacy, stating that “from humble beginnings, the college has grown from strength to strength, touching thousands of lives and shaping generations of youth with strong Christian values.” He noted that these values have guided students to become responsible citizens contributing meaningfully to society.
Highlighting distinguished alumni and contributors such as the late J. D. Rymbai, he stated that their achievements reflect how the institution has gone “far beyond academics to shape society.”
Recalling his association with the college, the Chief Minister referred to his participation in the Golden Jubilee celebrations a decade ago and his long-standing personal and family connection with the institution.
Emphasising the importance of education, he stated that “the greatest investment we can make—as a society and as a government—is in human capital,” adding that education remains “the most powerful tool to transform our society and take our state forward.”
He acknowledged ongoing reforms in the education sector based on the recommendations of the Education Reforms Commission and appreciated the contributions of its members.
The Chief Minister informed that the Government of Meghalaya invests significantly in education, spending close to ₹1,200 crore annually to support over 4,500 institutions through ad hoc and deficit grants.
He noted that approximately ₹120 crore is spent annually on teachers’ salaries under the deficit grant system, adding that Synod College is among the beneficiary institutions. He further assured continued government support, stating that Meghalaya stands out among Northeastern states for its sustained commitment to supporting a large number of institutions.
Addressing the youth, he highlighted the demographic potential of the state, noting that nearly 50 per cent of the population is below the age of 20, representing about 18 lakh young people. He described this as both an opportunity and a challenge, stressing that with the right guidance, the youth can become the state’s greatest strength.
At the same time, he expressed concern over issues such as drug abuse and the rising incidence of HIV, urging young people to act responsibly. “These are challenges we can overcome, but only if we work together—institutions, student bodies and society as a whole,” he said.
Encouraging a shift in mindset, the Chief Minister urged youth to embrace entrepreneurship. “Every year, around 60,000 young people enter the workforce, but only about 1,000 to 2,000 government jobs become available.
What about the remaining 58,000?” he remarked, adding that “the answer lies in entrepreneurship.” He called upon educational institutions to promote skill development and innovation, assuring that the government is ready to partner in such initiatives.
Concluding his address, he urged students to uphold values and character, stating, “Education is important, success is important, but above all, it is important to be a good human being. Be humble, be kind, respect others, fear God and honour your elders.”
The Principal, G. Lyngdoh, in her address, highlighted the institution’s journey since its establishment in 1965 with just 43 students offering pre-university Arts education. She noted that the college has grown into a major institution with more than 3,000 students across Higher Secondary, Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Professional programmes, and has successfully undergone four cycles of accreditation by NAAC, securing an A+ grade in the most recent assessment.
Reflecting on this journey, she stated that the achievements were “not with pride, but with a deep sense of gratitude—first and foremost to Almighty God,” while acknowledging the contributions of faculty, staff, students, alumni and management, past and present, in shaping the institution. Quoting Isaac Newton, she remarked, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”
She further emphasised the need to look ahead in an era of rapid transformation, stating that the college remains committed to academic excellence while preparing students for employment and entrepreneurship. She informed that the college is working towards establishing an extended campus at Mawpdang in the New Shillong Township, focusing on skill-based and livelihood training programmes, which would benefit youth from the area and neighbouring villages.
Earlier, the programme began with the Chair and Welcome Address delivered by Nangkhrawkupar Kharlukhi, followed by a Bible reading by Kenneth Hexon Pyngrope and a prayer by I. Pyngrope, Head of the Department of English.
The Chief Minister, along with the Principal, Vice Principal and the President of the Governing Body of the College, took part in the release of the College Souvenir as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
A song by the College Choir and a cultural dance performed by the students showcased the rich traditions and vibrant cultural heritage of the region. This was followed by the declaration of winners of the College Week competitions by K. L. Buam, Acting Teacher In-Charge, Synod College Students’ Council.
The ceremony concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Labhashisha Shadap, General Secretary of the Synod College Students’ Council (SCSC), followed by a prayer and benediction offered by E. R. Kharkrang, President of the Governing Body of the College.
The celebration marked the culmination of College Week 2026 and commemorated sixty years of excellence, dedication and service by Synod College.
The successful completion of College Week 2026, themed “Grace, Growth and Gratitude,” reflected the vibrancy, creativity and unity of the student community, while also highlighting the potential of youth to contribute meaningfully to building a progressive society.
The Diamond Jubilee celebration stands as a testament to the vision of the founders, the commitment of the faculty and staff, and the achievements of its students and alumni.
