Shillong, May 22: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma stated on Friday that education remains central to the state’s inclusive and comprehensive development approach. He emphasized that economic growth is meaningful only when it positively impacts every citizen.
Speaking at a gathering after laying the foundation stone for the new building of PASF-Abong Noga College and inaugurating its conference hall, CM Sangma noted that Meghalaya is among the fastest-growing economies in the country, with a nominal Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) growth rate exceeding 15 percent.
“True development is holistic development,” he remarked. He also mentioned that the government continues to invest significantly in education, youth, women, and farmers to ensure balanced and inclusive progress across the state.
Currently, approximately 13 percent of Meghalaya’s state budget is allocated to the education sector. He stressed that improving the quality of education remains one of the government’s top priorities.
CM Sangma stated, “The issue before us is now not just about quantity, but quality.” He highlighted that the government has been working to organize and improve the education sector over the past eight years.
The Chief Minister also shed light on the recent decision by the state government to implement a structured salary system for nearly 23,000 SSA and ad-hoc teachers, which includes an annual financial commitment of around ₹800 crore.
He asserted, “For meaningful reforms in education to succeed, teachers must have stability and dignity.”
Remembering the late Purno Ajitok Sangma’s vision, the Chief Minister noted that education has always been a priority for this experienced leader, who began his career as a teacher.
CM Sangma also thanked a private organization for its support in constructing the new college building under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), contributing a total of ₹8 crore. He remarked, “The company could have chosen any institution in the country, yet they selected PASF-Abong Noga College.”
Established under the P.A. Sangma Foundation, PASF-Abong Noga College commenced its academic activities in 2022 and later received affiliation from North-Eastern Hill University.
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