By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 13: Eighty-six toppers of the SSLC and HSSLC examinations conducted by the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBoSE) were felicitated by the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) at a function held at the State Convention Centre here on Saturday.
The students were honoured with certificates, mementoes and cash awards worth Rs 5 lakh in recognition of their academic achievements.
The programme was attended by Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya Justice Revati Mohite Dere, former Education Minister and Padma Shri awardee Manas Chaudhuri, Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem, Meghalaya Lokayukta Chairman CP Marak and other dignitaries.
The event also showcased a range of educational opportunities available to meritorious students from Meghalaya.
During the programme, USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque reiterated the university’s commitment to supporting deserving students through scholarships, financial assistance schemes and its Payback Policy, under which students who clear prestigious competitive examinations and achieve notable career milestones are eligible for fee reimbursement and other academic benefits.
Hoque announced that the toppers of MBoSE would be offered free admission to the four-year Bachelor of Arts in Administration and Governance (BAAG), a specialised undergraduate degree course designed for students aspiring to clear competitive examinations like the UPSC Civil Services while pursuing their graduation.
The programme is designed for students aspiring to join the civil services and leadership positions in governance, and combines undergraduate education with structured coaching and mentorship for UPSC and other competitive examinations.
Developed with inputs from former UPSC officials and senior administrators, the course aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills and leadership qualities required for public service and nation-building.
On the other hand, Justice Revati Mohite Dere congratulated the toppers and encouraged them to pursue their goals with integrity, determination and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Meanwhile, addressing the students, Padma Shri Manas Chaudhuri stressed the importance of initiative, character and purpose.
Drawing an analogy from four types of horses, he said the best horse begins galloping the moment its master sits on the saddle, even before the whip is used. The second horse responds when the whip merely touches its back, while the third requires a few lashes before moving.
The worst horse, he said, remains unmoved even when repeated whipping causes injury and bleeding.
He also urged the students not to wait for instructions but to anticipate responsibilities and act before being told. Such initiative, he said, comes from character rather than intellect.
Emphasising the need for a purpose in life, Chaudhuri encouraged the young achievers to serve their communities and expressed hope that some among them would emerge as trailblazers and future leaders.
