SHILLONG, Nov 5: St. Edmund’s College, a name that finds its place among one of the best educational institutes in the state, began its year-long centenary celebrations on Saturday with the unveiling of the statue of Edmund Rice on the college premises.
Dignitaries who were present during the inaugural ceremony include Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, and Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Shillong, Rev Fr Richard Majaw, besides intellectuals, teachers, former and present students of the college and invitees.
Father Paul Pudussery, in his keynote address, spoke about the change taking place in the contemporary world. He said the normal dominant change is in the field of information and technology, with it having a far reaching implication on how one acts and interacts at work, education, and civic life.
He suggested that the students be trained to harness the best of mobile technology and open platform in creating a better future for themselves and not to become slaves of the same.
According to him, education and educators needs to encourage students to be self-driven learners acquiring skills related to cooperation, communication standards, literacy, social and cultural skills, creativity, critical thinking, problem solving skills, learning skills, management, planning, flexibility, willingness to take risks, entrepreneurial skills and interdisciplinary thinking.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, who is an alumnus of the college, recalled how the experiences in his college days shaped him and helped him rectify his mistakes.
Giving an account of the incidents he encountered in the college which were part of a lifelong lesson, he said that he learned three things from the institute, which he follows till date — punctuality, importance of attendance, and being careful.
He urged the students to be competitive and open to change as they work hard.
Other speakers also recalled their fond memories of the heydays in the college, as they lauded the efforts of the institute for the services and shaping the future.
Meanwhile, soulful singing by the college choir and other artistes added colour to the celebrations. Moreover, a video tribute to deceased staff in service accompanied by live singing moved souls.
Colourful performances by the students enthralled the audience as they showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Northeast. The teaching and non teaching retried staffs were also felicitated on the occasion.
