SHILLONG, June 19: Synod College on Friday celebrated Thomas Jones Day to honour the legacy of the missionary widely regarded as the ‘Father of the Khasi Alphabet’.
Organised by the college’s Khasi Department, the commemorative programme featured faculty, students and guests, who reflected on the development of Khasi literacy and education.
Delivering the keynote address, Synod College principal Dr. G Lyngdoh described Rev. Thomas Jones as a “transformational figure” in Khasi history.
She noted that his introduction of the Roman script for the Khasi language was a turning point that enabled wider access to education and fostered the growth of modern Khasi literature.
Urging students to take pride in their mother tongue, Dr. Lyngdoh described language as a carrier of history and identity.
She then encouraged the youths to act as custodians of their cultural heritage while pursuing modern academic goals.
On the other hand, Pastor AI Kharshiing, who attended the event as the chief guest, spoke on the necessity of safeguarding the Khasi language.
A poetry competition was held as part of the celebrations, with Aibantei Hame Kharkongor securing the first prize for the poem ‘Uta U Dei U Thomas Jones’, followed by Jeffer Enville Hynniewta in second place for ‘Synniang U Thomas Jones’ and John Robert Shylla in third for ‘Ka Jingnoh Synniang U Thomas Jones’.
The programme also featured a musical performance of the song ‘U Maw Sah Dak’ by I. Warjri.
The observance concluded with a call to uphold the values of discipline and service embodied by Rev. Thomas Jones.
