Shillong, April 17: Reaffirming his government’s commitment to transforming the education sector, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday said sustained efforts are underway to upgrade infrastructure, improve teacher availability, and ensure equitable access to quality education, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Addressing a felicitation programme at Babelapara Higher Secondary School in South West Garo Hills, Sangma described education as a top priority for his government. He stressed that a “robust and forward-looking approach” is essential to bridge existing gaps in the system. Highlighting a key reform, the Chief Minister said the introduction of the Structured Pay Framework (SPF) for fixed-pay teachers is intended to create a transparent, equitable, and sustainable remuneration system.
He added that it would strengthen service conditions and provide social security benefits. Sangma underlined that improving the education ecosystem is central to empowering youth and driving long-term socio-economic development in the state. He revealed that nearly Rs 2,000 crore was initially required to upgrade Lower Primary schools across Meghalaya.
The initiative began with 100 schools and is being expanded in phases. In a significant announcement, he sanctioned Rs 20 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Development Fund for Babelapara Higher Secondary School to support its infrastructure and development needs. The programme was organised by the school, in collaboration with its School Management Committee and the All Meghalaya Upper Primary & Secondary Deficit Pattern School Teachers’ Association, to felicitate the Chief Minister for the SPF initiative.
Earlier, the school authorities highlighted challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and financial constraints, and appealed for government support to improve facilities and learning conditions. MLA Ian Botham K. Sangma said the state government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, has been consistently focusing on strengthening the education sector, especially in rural and underserved areas. He noted that efforts are ongoing to upgrade infrastructure, enhance teaching quality, and expand access to education. The event was attended by several officials, including MDC Rakesh A. Sangma, Deputy Commissioner Anendya Rajashre, Superintendent of Police Vikash Varma, and other district functionaries.
IANS
