By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 22: The Department of Sociology, NEHU, commenced its year-long 50th anniversary celebrations with a series of programmes at the university’s multi-purpose hall on Wednesday.
The celebration began early in the morning with a marathon, which was flagged off by the Pro-Chancellor, Sumarbin Umdor. Later, Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, an alumnus of the Department who completed his Master’s degree in Sociology in 2004, delivered a motivational talk on personal responsibility as a means to create a better and less chaotic society.
Addressing the students, Syiem shared his experiences of engaging with people in his constituency to raise awareness on social issues such as drug abuse and teenage pregnancy. He lamented that such awareness programmes often fail to reach those who most need the message.
“I understand that we have to go where the need is, and I do reach out to such places. But unfortunately, those who attend these programmes are not the intended audience. Those who need to hear the message are never there. However, we must find ways to reach out more effectively,” he said.
Referring to a common sight along the Shillong–Guwahati highway, Syiem mentioned seeing a duo riding a two-wheeler without helmets on his way to NEHU. “Anything can happen to such riders — even death — if another vehicle takes a wrong turn. It is our duty to obey the laws to stay safe,” he added, urging students to share the lessons they learn with others in their villages and localities.
The programme also featured a cultural dance performance representing various ethnic communities, followed by a panel discussion on the theme “Social Science Research in North East India: Problems and Prospects,” moderated by Prof DV Kumar. The panellists included Prof H Shrikant (Political Science), Dr Jemino Mawthoh (Adult and Continuing Education), Prof K Kikhi (Sociology), and Patricia Mukhim, Editor of The Shillong Times.
The discussion touched upon whether the pressing social concerns of Northeast India — such as poor educational outcomes, and maternal and child health — are being adequately addressed through research. Panelists also raised issues of academic freedom, limited research funding, and the need for state-specific studies to inform policy interventions. One student suggested that state governments establish dedicated research departments to study local issues and assist in policymaking.
Head of the Department, Prof Rekha Shangpliang, the first woman to lead the Department, gave an overview of its 49-year journey and highlighted some of the groundbreaking research conducted by faculty members, including the late Prof AK Nongkynrih, particularly in remote areas such as Khat-ar Shnong in East Khasi Hills. Prof Shangpliang also announced that several activities are planned throughout the year to commemorate the golden jubilee.
The celebration concluded with a classical dance recital by a male student of the Department, which was one of the highlights of the day’s programme.
