SHILLONG, Sep 17: In a proposed collaborative effort expected to strengthen the educational infrastructure of the state and drive progress in the sector, Vice Chancellors from several leading private universities in the state have proposed the formation of the “Confederation of Meghalaya Private Universities.” The proposal was discussed during a meeting held on September 4 at Courtyard Marriott, Shillong, where the Vice Chancellors gathered to deliberate on the objectives and potential impact of this initiative.
The meeting was attended by prominent academic leaders including Dr Alicia Gatphoh, Vice Chancellor of ICFAI University, Meghalaya; Dr Paul Bhaggien, Vice Chancellor of North East Adventist University, Jowai; Dr Soma Bhowmick, Vice Chancellor of William Carey University, Shillong; Prof TK Kharbamon, Vice Chancellor of Martin Luther Christian University, Shillong; Dr Manjeet Kaur Kaushal, Vice Chancellor of CMJ University, Meghalaya; Dr Sagar O Manjee, Vice Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi University, Meghalaya; and Dr Malhar Pangrikar, Vice Chancellor of MIT University of Meghalaya.
The confederation aims to foster collaboration among private universities in the state to enhance academic standards, infrastructure, and the overall learning environment.
One of the key objectives of the proposed initiative is to position Meghalaya as a leading education hub, attracting students and educators from across India and beyond. The Vice Chancellors underscored their commitment to driving innovation in higher education, promoting research opportunities, and ensuring the delivery of quality academic programmes.
The proposed Confederation of Meghalaya Private Universities is expected to serve as a collective platform to address challenges faced by the education sector, advocate for policy reforms, and establish partnerships that benefit the broader academic ecosystem in the state.
The confederation will seek recognition from the State Education Ministry and the Meghalaya Private Universities Regulatory Board (MPURB). The membership will include private universities and deemed universities recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and established under state legislation. The governing body will comprise office-bearers including a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer, who will serve for a specific tenure. At the conclusion of the meeting, interim representatives were appointed to key positions in the confederation’s leadership. Dr Malhar Pangrikar, Vice Chancellor of MIT University of Meghalaya, was named acting president, while Prof TK Kharbamon, Vice Chancellor of Martin Luther Christian University, Shillong, was appointed acting vice-president. Dr Paul Bhaggien, Vice Chancellor of North East Adventist University, Jowai, was chosen as acting secretary.
