By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 19: The District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Sohra, celebrated its 25th anniversary today under the theme “Enriching Minds; Transforming Lives,” marking a quarter-century of service to teacher education in Meghalaya.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui attended the silver jubilee as the chief guest, joined by Shella MLA Balajied Kupar Synrem, Sohra MLA Gavin M Mylliem, and senior officials from the Education department.
In his keynote address, Rymbui announced that 2,800 teaching posts will be filled in Meghalaya through a competitive process conducted by NEST. He also informed the gathering that the Cabinet has approved the establishment of the Meghalaya Teachers’ Training Academy to facilitate continuous professional development.
Addressing policy mandates, the minister reiterated that the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) is compulsory for all teachers, regardless of their years of service, following Supreme Court directives. He also noted that under the National Education Policy (NEP), all teachers must obtain a four-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) qualification by 2030–34.
Rymbui outlined the government’s plan for school rationalization, aimed at ensuring a minimum of five teachers per institution. Regarding technological shifts, he stated that while Artificial Intelligence will not replace human reasoning, AI literacy will be introduced to keep both teachers and students future-ready.
MLA Gavin M Mylliem noted that DIET Sohra was designated as a Centre of Excellence in 2023. He highlighted the state’s financial commitment to the sector, with nearly 15% of the total budget—approximately Rs 3,500 crore—allocated to education.
Shella MLA Balajied Kupar Synrem added that nation-building begins with quality teachers, noting the central role of institutions like DIET in shaping future generations.
Earlier, DIET Sohra Principal AM Sohliya presented a brief history of the institute, which was established in 2000. The celebration included the release of a 25th-anniversary souvenir and the felicitation of faculty members who have served the institution since its inception.
The programme concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and a cultural presentation by students and alumni.
