GUWAHATI: “ESPLENDIDEZ’18” the annual techno fest of the Regional Institute of Science & Technology (RIST) was formally inaugurated by Lahkmen Rymbui, Minister of Education, Forest and Environment, Meghalaya here today. On the occasion, Rymbui also laid the foundation of Dr Donkupar Roy Block at the University of Science & Technology, Meghalaya (USTM).
Addressing the inaugural function as the Chief Guest, Meghalaya Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said that the education scenario today is very dynamic in nature and the essence of educational institutions in the region lies in imparting quality education. Appreciating RIST’s sponsor ERD Foundation’s belief that the institution will become world class, he said that 10 per cent of the dream is visible already. Rymbui expressed that along with RIST, the University of Science & Technology, Meghalaya(USTM) do not merely belong to Meghalaya state, but for the whole of the North East. According to him, closure of several private educational institutions is due to the challenge of quality and dynamism of current educational scenario.
Speaking on the occasion, Nujorki Sungoh, MLA, Mowkaiaw Constituency said, “Education is a passport for tomorrow”. He urged the students to work hard and prepare themselves for the future. He said that students should be able to contribute to the society, state, country and the future generation.
Addressing the gathering, Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor, USTM & Chairman, ERDF said that the institution is always ready to serve the state and the region in its own capacity in the field of education. Earlier, in the welcome address, Dr PC Mahanta, Director, RIST said that ESPLENDIDEZ is a composition of technical and cultural events and that it is being held for the fourth time. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr PK Pathak, Principal, RIST.
Competitions among college students began after the ceremonial flag hoist at 8.30 am while the evening was captivated by music. The two-day event is being marked by various competitions, such as, Sharp Shooter (photography competition), Build-o-Mania (building construction), Delta Box (computer game competition), Strumming beats (singing competition), Robotics, Step Down (dance competition), Battle-o-Rock (rock band competition), Shine o Light (fashion show for Mr & Ms ESPLENDIDEZ’ 2018). Students from different colleges across the North East have participated in the competitions as the event is open for all. The evening of 8th April will be enthralled by Bollywood singer and Raw Star Winner Rituraj Mohanty as well as Kiran Laishram, fbb Femina Miss India Meghalaya’17.