NEHU urged to reconsider FYUP implementation
SHILLONG, May 25: The Meghalaya Chapter of the All India Save Education Committee (AISEC) has called on the Academic Council of North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) to address critical concerns regarding the implementation of the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP). In a statement issued on Monday, AISEC highlighted a lack of clarity in synchronising the fourth year of undergraduate studies with a one-year postgraduate (PG) track. The committee recommended that the university maintain the existing three-year degree and two-year PG format until these issues are resolved. AISEC noted that colleges currently lack the faculty strength, infrastructure, and library resources necessary for an additional year of study. The committee warned that without significant upgrades, students would be disadvantaged. It further urged NEHU to clearly define the specific career benefits and growth prospects of the fourth year to help students and parents make informed decisions. Regarding postgraduate studies, the committee stated that NEHU’s departments are not yet equipped to launch a one-year PG program. AISEC pointed to vacant teaching positions and the need for additional recruitment and infrastructure expansion to manage two simultaneous PG streams. Pointing out that few reputed universities have successfully implemented dual PG tracks, AISEC advised NEHU to adopt a “wait and watch” approach. The committee called on the Academic Council to thoroughly deliberate the transition to ensure that any changes are genuinely beneficial to the student community.
PHE Minister reviews water projects, launches digital portal
SHILLONG, May 25: PHE Minister Marcuise Marak on Monday chaired a review meeting to assess the progress of various water supply schemes across Meghalaya. The meeting was attended by the Commissioner and Secretary, Chief Engineers, and other senior officials of the PHE Department. The Minister conducted a detailed review of major state projects, including the Greater Shillong, New Shillong, Tura Bulk, and Williamnagar Urban water supply schemes. The meeting also evaluated the progress of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). Marak expressed satisfaction with the state’s performance and the fulfillment of central government criteria required for the release of pending JJM payments. Additionally, the Minister launched a digital portal for the registration and renewal of contractors. Developed by the North Eastern Council (NEC), the portal is designed to streamline the application process and enhance transparency within the department.
KSU expands CEC, appoints new members, district in-charges
SHILLONG, May 25: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has expanded its Central Executive Council (CEC) by inducting new office-bearers and district in-charges for the 2026-2029 term. KSU general secretary Reuben A Najiar stated that the appointments were finalised during a meeting held on May 23 at the union’s central office in Jaiaw. Key appointments include James H Mawphniang as legal affairs secretary and Iashanborlang Mukhim as finance secretary, alongside several assistant secretaries for portfolios including organising, education, information, environment, and sports. The union also established leadership for its specialised wings, naming Spaindarsing Lyngkhoi as chairman and Shiningstar Kharihkhiew as secretary of the Farmers and Consumer Cell. For the Employment and Monitoring Cell, Hopefulborn L Mawnai was appointed chairman and Sandy Sohtun as secretary. To streamline operations, the CEC assigned members to oversee district units across the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. In-charges for North Khasi Hills include Pynkmenlang Sanmiet, Erick Nongkynrih, Ferdynald Kharkamni, and James H Mawphniang; West Khasi Hills will be overseen by Spaindarsing Lyngkhoi, Sandy Sohtun, Gary Mawlieh, and John F Nongsiang; and South West Khasi Hills by Shelkitbok Kharbani, Cleenstar Shabong, Pynshai Rani, Forwardman Nongrem, and Shemphang Nonglang. The South Khasi Hills unit will be supervised by Ostarnic Marbaniang, Melajied Khongbuh, and Badon Nongbri; Eastern Central by Alerick Kharjana, Nangshngain Lakiang, and Pynshngain Lyngdoh; and Western Central by Eddie Malngiang and Kevin N Wanrap. For East Jaintia Hills, the in-charges are Iashanborlang Mukhim, Hopefulborn L. Mawnai, Jeremaiah Pohthmi, and Streamly Suchen, while West Jaintia Hills will be managed by Shining Kharbihkhiew, Badonbok Malngiang, Andrew Gary Dkhar, and Laitphar Syngkrem. The newly appointed officials will be formally sworn in by former KSU leader and NESO Chairman Samuel Jyrwa during a ceremony at Soso Tham Auditorium on June 6.
State varsity, Thai university host workshop on rural education
SHILLONG, May 25: Captain Williamson Sangma State University (CWSSU), in collaboration with the International College of Payap University, Thailand, recently concluded a two-day international academic workshop focused on school improvement in tribal and rural contexts. The programme, held on May 21–22, centered on human resource development and design thinking. While international speakers joined virtually, 41 participants—including faculty and MA Education students from across Meghalaya—attended the sessions at the CWSSU campus. During the inauguration, CWSSU Vice Chancellor Dr Vasanthi Vijayakumar stressed the importance of global academic partnerships in addressing local educational needs. Dr Patchara, Dean of Payap University’s International College, noted that cross-border collaborations allow educators to exchange practical solutions for shared challenges. The workshop featured sessions by US-based scholars Dr Brian Perkins of Columbia University and Dr. Oliver “Ozzie” Crocco of Louisiana State University. Dr Perkins introduced design thinking strategies that prioritise students and communities in school reform, while Dr Crocco spoke on strengthening teacher leadership and professional learning in challenging environments. Participants discussed specific obstacles facing remote schools, such as teacher shortages, infrastructure gaps, and language barriers. The event was coordinated by Dr Geetam Chetry, Dr Kanika Das, and Deiborme Lyngdoh from CWSSU, alongside Dr Chiche from Payap University. Both institutions expressed interest in future research partnerships and faculty exchanges to support education in marginalised communities across South and Southeast Asia.
