Shillong: The North East Regional Institute of Education (NERIE), Shillong, a constituent unit of the National Council of Educational Research and Training, on Wednesday hosted an interactive session with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, aiming to inspire future educators and promote the integration of scientific temper into classroom practice.
Group Captain Shukla, an officer of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and a gaganyatri associated with the Indian Space Research Organisation, recently completed a historic space mission as mission pilot on Axiom-4 to the International Space Station. The mission launched on June 25, 2025, and concluded on July 15, 2025, after an 18-day stay in orbit. With this, he became the first Indian to visit the ISS and the second Indian in space after Rakesh Sharma.
The programme, held at the Institute Auditorium, saw enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members and administrative staff. Dr S. P. Aggarwal, Director of the North Eastern Space Applications Centre, attended as a distinguished guest.
The central theme of the interaction focused on the role of teachers in nation-building. Addressing the gathering, Group Captain Shukla underlined the responsibility of educators in achieving the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He said empowered classrooms and forward-looking teachers form the foundation of a developed nation and urged future educators to remain updated with advancements in science and technology.
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Stressing the importance of teachers, he remarked that every major success story begins in the classroom and encouraged students to dream big and pursue their goals with discipline and commitment.
The interactive segment allowed students to engage directly with the astronaut. Nehal Gurung, Akansha Tiwari, Krishna Dev and Shayanika Sekhar Baishya posed questions on space science, leadership and personal discipline, leading to an engaging exchange.
The session began with a welcome address by Dr Tulika Dey, Associate Professor, who also anchored the programme. The Principal of NERIE, Dr (Mrs.) Flourette G. Dkhar, led the felicitation of the guest of honour. Students Tonay Borah and Navajita Bora also felicitated Group Captain Shukla. Dr Subhas Chandra Roy, Dean of Instructions, and other senior faculty members were present on the dais.
The Institute stated that the programme aimed to provide holistic exposure to its trainees and connect them with real-life examples of leadership and national service. Organisers said the interaction successfully motivated young minds and reinforced the importance of education in shaping the country’s future.
