NEHU’s professional photography training prog to begin on May 20
SHILLONG, May 17: The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, NEHU, Shillong, will host a Professional Photography Training Programme from May 20 to 22, 2025, in collaboration with OM System (formerly Olympus Corporation). The workshop will combine theoretical and practical training using high-end OM System cameras and lenses. It aims to equip participants with essential skills in camera handling, lighting, composition, and visual storytelling. The sessions will be conducted by three industry experts: Ravendra Pal, Product Manager at OM System; Arihant Mukhedkar, a noted fashion and advertising photographer; and Sudipta Chakraborty, an acclaimed wildlife photographer. Open to students of journalism, mass communication and visual arts, the programme is designed to enhance creative and technical proficiency for careers in media, advertising, digital content and documentary work.
Community library comes up at Don Bosco Youth Centre
SHILLONG, May 17: Cabinet Minister and Laitumkhrah MLA Ampareen Lyngdoh on Saturday inaugurated a community library at the Don Bosco Youth Centre, Laitumkhrah, Shillong. According to a statement here, the initiative, led by Seng Kynthei Laitumkhrah Pyllun with support from the local MLA and NEEPCO, aims to promote a culture of reading and learning among students and the wider community. The inauguration ceremony was attended by officials from NEEPCO, members of Sahaki, donors and local residents. “The library aims to cater to the needs of students and readers, fostering a culture of reading and learning by providing access to a diverse range of books and educational resources,” the statement said.
USTM VC elected prez of ISSA
SHILLONG, May 17: Vice Chancellor of University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), Prof. Gauri Dutt Sharma, has been elected president of the National Academy of Social Science, Allahabad, for 2025-26 and 2026-27 by the Indian Social Science Academy (ISSA). In a statement, the university has expressed its delight at the honour and acknowledged the leadership and academic contributions of Prof. Sharma. “Vice Chancellor Professor Shri Gauri Dutt Sharma is a visionary leader with a global vision with vast knowledge and experience, expertise and wisdom to help bring to fruition the dreams of the new generation of the twenty-first century. Coupled with his skills is his humanity, gentleness, compassion, frankness, honesty, transparency and accountability with excellent governance. Upholding the flag of “Unity in Diversity”with inclusiveness, his gentle touch fortified with administrative acumen and research credentials contribute greatly for the cause of national development with a global pitch,” the statement said. Prof. Sharma has also contributed to academic development in India’s tribal regions, especially in the Northeastern and central states. “His tenure in central universities such as NEHU (Meghalaya), Mizoram University, NERIST (Arunachal Pradesh) and Nagaland University is heralded by his outstanding leadership roles as Head, Dean, Pro Vice Chancellor, and Vice-Chancellor. He has played a vital role in promoting research, human resource development, and community engagement in these regions,” the statement said. Meanwhile, reacting to the announcement, Prof. Sharma said, “It is a great honour to serve as president of the National Academy of Social Science. I look forward to working with scholars and institutions across the country to strengthen research, foster innovation and contribute to evidence-based social policy for a better future.” On the other hand, USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque congratulated the vice chancellor. “I congratulate Vice-Chancellor Professor Shri Gauri Dutt Sharma on his remarkable achievement and am proud that his fortitude will be a marvellous asset to ISSA going forward. I wish him great success,” Hoque said.
