Shillong, Jan 10: Responding to concerns surrounding the yet-to-be-inaugurated Captain Williamson Sangma State University, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has clarified that colleges in Meghalaya are under no obligation to affiliate with the state university.
Institutions can continue their affiliations with the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) or other recognised universities as per their preference.
“All colleges have the freedom to choose their affiliation,” Sangma stated. “They can remain with NEHU, affiliate with USTM, or opt for Captain Williamson Sangma State University. There is absolutely no compulsion from the government. The decision lies entirely with the colleges.”
Sangma further clarified the implications for colleges that remain affiliated with NEHU, particularly with the introduction of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). “Students applying to NEHU-affiliated colleges for higher studies will now need to clear CUET. Earlier, we were exempt because we didn’t have a state university, but that exemption no longer applies,” he said.
On the inaugural ceremony of the state university, which faced criticism for including Christian prayers, Sangma asserted that the program followed standard government practices. “This is a government initiative, and we’ve invited everyone — church leaders, religious leaders, societal organizations, cabinet ministers, and officials. Like in many other programs, we began with a prayer, and there is nothing wrong with that.”
He called the launch of the state university a landmark moment for Meghalaya. “The university is critical for research, education, and various academic departments. It addresses CUET-related concerns and gives students and colleges more options,” Sangma said.