By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 10: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday highlighted the transformative potential of the ULLAS (Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society) programme, describing it as a critical step toward achieving universal literacy in Meghalaya.
Speaking at the ULLAS Fest at U Soso Tham Auditorium, the chief minister said the initiative is designed to reach those left out of the formal education system, providing them with basic literacy, numeracy and essential life skills such as digital and financial literacy.
“ULLAS seeks to correct this imbalance by giving every individual a second chance at education and dignity,” Sangma said.
Initially rolled out in six districts, the programme has been extended to all 12 districts for the 2024-25 phase. It aims to cover over four lakh learners aged 15 and above across the state.
The chief minister stated that the government’s vision extends to holistic empowerment, ensuring citizens can participate meaningfully in the economy.
Comparing education reforms to nurturing a tree, he noted that while results may not be immediate, these policies will shape the state’s future over the next decade.
He also urged the public to adopt a constructive approach, focusing on broader progress rather than only on shortcomings.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, on the other hand, stated that the ULLAS initiative aligns with the national goal of achieving full literacy by 2027. He pointed out that nearly two lakh people in the state are yet to be certified as literate.
To reach the 95 per cent literacy benchmark, Rymbui said an additional 38,000 individuals must be brought under the programme. “Though the number may seem modest, reaching each individual is a demanding task that requires coordinated effort at all levels,” he said.
The education minister urged volunteers, educators and youths to support the mission, noting that adult literacy plays a vital role in preventing school dropouts among younger generations.
He appealed for maximum participation in the upcoming literacy assessment scheduled for April 24.
