SHILLONG, July 19: The Meghalaya government on Sunday declared a holiday on Monday for all government, government-aided and private schools across the state to enable students to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain, as football fever reached fever pitch across the state ahead of the epic clash.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced the decision through a video message, saying the move reflected football’s unique place in the lives of the people of Meghalaya.
“I have some good news for football lovers. Apart from Argentina and Spain making it to the finals, tomorrow will be a holiday for all educational institutions, including schools and colleges. As we know, football is a passion and a way of life in our state,” Sangma said.
He said the government wanted youngsters to enjoy the World Cup final without academic commitments. “In order to allow our youngsters to truly enjoy it, we have come to this decision. Enjoy the final, and I wish you all the very best,” he added.
Following the announcement, the Directorate of School Education and Literacy issued an order declaring July 20 a holiday for all government, government-aided and private schools, citing the widespread public interest in the final scheduled during the early hours of Monday and the likely impact on attendance and well-being of students and teaching staff.
The Directorate of Higher and Technical Education also ordered the closure of all government colleges, government polytechnics and the Shillong Government College of Engineering. It advised private higher educational institutions and Captain Williamson Sangma State University (CWSSU) to consider declaring a holiday. CWSSU postponed all undergraduate and postgraduate examinations scheduled for July 20 to July 31.
As the countdown to the 12.30 am kick-off began, Shillong transformed into a sea of blue and red. Supporters clad in jerseys and waving flags thronged streets, cafes and public spaces. While support was split, Argentina enjoyed overwhelming backing in Meghalaya, with Chief Minister Sangma and Opposition VPP chief Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit among those who publicly rooted for the South American champions and shared pictures of themselves in the jersey.
To accommodate the unprecedented enthusiasm, the management of the Chief Minister’s World Cup Fan Park installed an additional giant screen at Polo, after thousands had gathered for the Argentina-England semi-final screening at the SRGT Parking Lot.
Fan Parks were also set up at Fancy Valley, Parade Ground in Tura and Jrisalieñ Playground, Chutwakhu in Jowai, as the Chief Minister invited football lovers in Garo and Jaintia Hills to celebrate together.
