SHILLONG, Feb 12: Governor Satya Pal Malik on Friday urged upon the Vice Chancellor of the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) to constitute a seat of research on state’s freedom fighters so as to tell the country about them as well as others too.
During his visit to NEHU, the Governor, who is also the Chief Rector of the varsity, unveiled two portraits of the freedom fighters of Meghalaya — U Tirot Sing and U Kiang Nangbah.
In view of the pandemic situation, the function, however, was simultaneously held on the Zoom platform.
The programme kicked off with a welcome address by the Registrar followed by a brief note on the achievements of university by Vice Chancellor Prof SK Srivastava, who announced that two of the guest houses on NEHU campus have been named after the two freedom fighters of the state.
In his address, the Governor lauded the University’s efforts in recognising the sacrifices of the two martyrs, while adding that their portraits are also hung in Raj Bhavan.
Getting impressed after reading up on the two warriors, Malik said that at a very young age they had achieved something that would continue to inspire generations. With regard to the education front, the Governor spoke of it as a means of empowerment. He credited education for his achievements in life and called the five years of his college the best years of his life, while expressing willingness to gladly give up everything if he could get those years back.
“Education empowers you,” he said, adding that those societies that prioritise education have progressed.
Recalling the time when he was looking after Parliamentary Affairs, he bewailed the fact that there has never been much debate on education. “The quality of education suffers when wealthy and powerful people don’t contribute to the cause of education. The government alone cannot do everything if those with means do not pitch in,” he added.
On a lighter note, the governor, a NEHU alumnus, said he was looking forward to have a cup of tea in the University canteen, while informing that it is where he would spend most of his time when as a student.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Pro-Vice Chancellor, Shillong campus.