GUWAHATI, July 20: Former Meghalaya chief minister D.D Lapang on Thursday inaugurated a block named in his honour on the campus of University of Science and Technology (USTM).
The event was witnessed by dignitaries such as Donlang Sohkhlet, vice chairman of the Meghalaya Resources Employment Generation Council, and R.B Shadap, president of Ri Bhoi Darbar, alongside the chancellor and vice chancellor of USTM.
The newly unveiled “Dr DD Lapang Block” stands as a testament to the former chief minister’s contributions to the state and his association with the university.
During the ceremony, the distinguished statesman took the opportunity to address a captive audience comprising students, faculty members, officials and other staff at the central auditorium.
Addressing the gathering, Lapang, who is currently the advisor to the Meghalaya government, expressed his gratitude for the honour and shared inspiring words that left a lasting impact on the audience.
“I recall that very day when this place resembled a desolate wasteland. Now it stands proudly as a thriving educational hub. I will forever stand by your side. Through vision, unwavering determination and boundless ambition, a single individual has brought about this remarkable transformation,” the former chief minister said.
“The courage of this one person outweighs the doubts of many. As long as I live, the indelible footprints left in the sands of time will remain etched in my memory. USTM will continue to flourish and make its mark on the global stage,” he said.
In his welcome address, USTM chancellor Mahbubul Hoque extended a warm reception to Lapang and the other esteemed guests from the Meghalaya government.
The event was marked with a sense of pride and admiration for Lapang’s exceptional service to the region.
Offering the vote of thanks, USTM vice-chancellor GD Sharma, emphasised the significance of the newly-inaugurated block in commemorating Lapang’s legacy, adding that it would serve as a constant source of inspiration for the university’s students and faculty.
The inauguration ceremony concluded on a high note, with attendees expressing their appreciation for Lapang’s distinguished career and his enduring commitment to the betterment of Meghalaya.