Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday reiterated that education is the cornerstone of the state’s vision for inclusive and holistic development, stating that economic growth has true value only when it benefits all sections of society. He made the remarks after laying the foundation stone for a new building of PASF-Abong Noga College and inaugurating its conference hall in Tura.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Meghalaya is currently among the faster-growing economies in India, with nominal Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth exceeding 15 per cent. He said the government’s development strategy is built on the principle of “real growth being holistic growth,” with focused investments in education, youth development, women empowerment, and agriculture to ensure balanced progress across the state.

Sangma noted that nearly 13 per cent of the state budget is being allocated to the education sector, underscoring the government’s continued emphasis on strengthening learning infrastructure and outcomes. However, he stressed that the key challenge is no longer expansion alone, but improving the quality of education. He added that over the past eight years, the government has undertaken reforms aimed at rationalising and restructuring the education system for better efficiency and results.

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The Chief Minister also announced a significant policy step involving a structured pay system for around 23,000 SSA and ad hoc teachers across the state. The initiative involves an annual financial commitment of nearly ₹800 crore and is aimed at ensuring job stability and dignity for teachers. He said that meaningful educational reform is not possible without securing the welfare and motivation of educators who form the backbone of the system.

During his address, Sangma also recalled the vision of late Purno Agitok Sangma, noting that education had always been central to his leadership and personal journey as a former teacher. He expressed gratitude to a private organisation that provided CSR funding of ₹8 crore for the construction of the new college building, stating that such partnerships strengthen educational development in the region.

PASF-Abong Noga College, established under the P.A. Sangma Foundation, began academic operations in 2022 and is affiliated with North-Eastern Hill University. Officials said the new infrastructure is expected to enhance academic facilities and support the institution’s long-term growth, aligning with the state’s broader goal of expanding access to quality higher education in Meghalaya.

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