Thomas Jones Synod College Jowai celebrates government recognition

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 25, 2024

Thomas Jones Synod College in Jowai held a special ceremony on July 25 to celebrate its inclusion in the People’s College Grant in aid scheme. The event was attended by Meghalaya Education Minister Rakkam A. Sangma as the chief guest.

Also present were Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla, Adviser Education Department HM Shangpliang, JHADC MDC Octomewot Lamin, West Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner B.S. Sohliya, Director Higher and Technical Education Hazel DB Sangma, District School Education Officer A. Syiem, faculty members, and students.

During the ceremony, Minister Sangma distributed appointment letters to 23 new teachers and one librarian. He also honoured six faculty members who completed their Ph.D. degrees: Dr. Lincoln Dkhar, Dr. Tyrchain Mitre Lipon (Chemistry), Dr. Kermi U Tariang, Dr. Armanki Shylla (Zoology), Dr. Bobbyland Lyngkhoi (Physics), and Marlon Brando Rani (Botany).

In his speech, Minister Sangma emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing education in the state. He highlighted that over the past five years, the government has supported 21 colleges across Meghalaya under the People’s College initiative. Despite challenges posed by new policies, the government, led by the Chief Minister, continues to support educational institutions statewide.

Though the government sanctioned only 24 posts for Thomas Jones Synod College, Minister Sangma assured ongoing support and urged educators to serve diligently regardless of their salaries. He outlined the state’s goal to enhance education quality and retain students within Meghalaya, aiming to make it one of the top educational hubs in the country.

Minister Sangma mentioned that in recent years, the government has constructed many new college infrastructures. A new DIET institute in Sohra is set to open soon, with over 6 crores sanctioned under SSA for its construction. Many colleges have also been constructed under PM-RUSA and other state funds. This week, the Education Department will release advertisements for recruiting more than 132 vacant lecturer posts, he added.

Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla acknowledged the significance of the government’s recognition of the college and reiterated the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises. Adviser M.H. Shangpliang called this a milestone in improving the state’s education standards and urged educators to provide the best service to their students.

The event was presided over by Chairman of the Governing Body Rev. Meshak Shylla, in the presence of Principal Dr. I Dkhar, Moderator KJP Synod Mihngi Rev. CL Laloo, and Assistant Professor Kong A Thma, among others.