TURA, Jan 14: A total of 3,066 M-TABs were provided to Class XI students from 19 schools in Tura and surrounding areas of West Garo Hills for the academic year 2023-24, marking a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide in education while also representing a pivotal step in Meghalaya’s mission to enhance education through technology, aligning with its vision of digital transformation.
The M-TABs (Digital Tablets) were distributed by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma under the CM’s Student Digital Learning Aid Scheme. The distribution ceremony was held at the District Auditorium in Tura.
The event was also attended by Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma, Commissioner and Secretary of the IT and Communication, Pravin Bakshi, and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma underscored the transformative potential of technology in education. He stated that the goal of the scheme is not merely to distribute devices but to empower students with tools to enhance their learning experience. “This programme is not just about giving you a device; it is a message to all the students that we believe in you and trust you to be the future of our state,” the chief minister said.
He also provided updates on the development of IT Parks in Tura and Shillong and ongoing efforts to expand optical fiber networks across the state. These initiatives aim to improve internet connectivity in educational institutions, with the broader goal of making Meghalaya a hub for IT innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
Speaking on the government’s long-term vision, the chief minister assured attendees that improved digital infrastructure would eventually benefit even the remotest schools in the state.
Features like seamless Wi-Fi connections and regular content updates for the distributed M-TABs will ensure consistent access to quality educational resources.
Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma, speaking as the guest of honour, lauded the initiative as a significant step toward embracing digital learning. He encouraged students to utilise the M-TABs not only for academics but also to develop critical thinking, creativity, and research skills. “Education is the foundation of our future, and access to technology is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” he remarked.
In his keynote address, Commissioner and Secretary Pravin Bakshi gave a detailed overview of the CM’s Student Digital Learning Aid Scheme, emphasising on the Meghalaya government’s commitment to fostering educational innovation and empowering students through technology. Bakshi highlighted that the M-TABs are preloaded with educational content, including interactive e-learning modules, quizzes, and multimedia lessons aligned with both state and central syllabi for Arts, Commerce, and Science streams. The devices also include preparatory materials for competitive exams such as JEE and NEET.
Bakshi informed the audience that a total of 30,480 Class XI students across Meghalaya would receive these devices, with 3,066 allocated to West Garo Hills district in the current academic year.
Additionally, 5,750 M-TABs will be distributed to higher secondary level schoolteachers to ensure that educators are equipped to facilitate digital learning effectively.
The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills, Jagdish Chelani, Superintendent of Police, AT Sangma, Executive Chairman of Meghalaya Board of School Education CP Marak, Additional Deputy Commissioners, officials from the IT and Communication department, school heads, teachers, and students.
