Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the Academic Session 2025–26 of the Pahamsyiem Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) in Ri-Bhoi District on Thursday and laid the foundation stone for a Synthetic Athletic Track at Chinchona, Pahamsyiem, Nongpoh.
The event was attended by Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, Community and Rural Development Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, and MLA Mayral Born Syiem, who also chairs the Meghalaya State Health Advisory Board.
Senior officials present included Banteilang J. Kharshandi, Director of School Education & Literacy and CEO of the Meghalaya Residential School Society, and Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister welcomed the students as the “true guests of honor,” stressing that the programme was primarily for them.
He highlighted the significance of launching the academic session of the first EMRS in Pahamsyiem and thanked the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, the Prime Minister, and the Tribal Affairs Minister for their support in establishing the school and providing essential infrastructure.
Sangma underscored the broader purpose of education, saying it is not just about textbooks or exams but about shaping character, instilling values, and building the future of the state.
Noting that nearly 2,000 students had applied to the EMRS, he urged those selected to value the opportunity and fully commit to their studies.
On the Synthetic Athletic Track, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusive development, urging all communities to recognise the progress being made across the state.
He also highlighted Meghalaya’s economic growth, noting that the state has achieved a 10% annual GDP growth over the last three years, making it the second fastest-growing economy in the country.
He further acknowledged requests from students for musical instruments and gardening tools, assuring that these needs would be met.
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Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui reiterated the government’s focus on providing quality education and encouraged faculty to guide students toward excellence.
The Synthetic Athletic Track, being developed by the State Sports Council Meghalaya, is intended to enhance sports infrastructure in Ri-Bhoi and provide improved training facilities for young athletes.
During the programme, the Chief Minister also flagged off four vehicles under the Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY), implemented by the District Rural Development Agency under MSRLS, aimed at improving rural connectivity and supporting livelihood activities for self-help groups.
The programme concluded with a cultural presentation by the students of EMRS, showcasing their talent and celebrating the launch of the new academic session.
