Shillong, March 11: Meghalaya’s Education Minister, Lahkmen Rymbui, attended the Teacher Connect Workshop organised by the Department of Higher and Professional Education in collaboration with the National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), New Delhi. The workshop aimed to enhance teachers’ understanding of the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020.
The programme brought together school teachers and faculty members from higher education institutions across Meghalaya. Shashikala Wanjari, Vice Chancellor of NIEPA, joined the programme online as the Guest of Honour from New Delhi.
The workshop began with a welcome address by Quendarisa Kharbuli, In-Charge of the UGC–Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Centre (MMTTC) at North Eastern Hill University, Shillong. This was followed by a presentation from Sangeeta Angom, Programme Coordinator and NIEPA-NER Coordinator, who highlighted the objectives of the workshop.
Addressing the gathering, Rymbui emphasised the importance of such initiatives in helping educators align themselves with the goals of NEP 2020. He noted that although six years have passed since the policy was introduced, much work remains to ensure its effective implementation.
Highlighting the crucial role of teachers, the minister stated that educators form the backbone of a progressive society and play a key role in shaping the future generation. He described teachers as a “refinery” that shapes and refines the potential of students.
Rymbui also urged teachers to continuously update their knowledge and adapt to evolving technology and modern teaching practices. He cautioned that with students having access to vast information sources, teachers must continually retrain and upgrade themselves to remain relevant in the education system.
The minister further highlighted that the Government of Meghalaya has introduced initiatives such as the Meghalaya Teacher Training Academics to strengthen professional development for teachers. He also encouraged educators to guide students toward developing skills and exploring opportunities beyond government employment.
Referring to skill development initiatives launched by Narendra Modi in 2018, Rymbui stressed the importance of nurturing students’ talents and encouraging self-reliance. He also mentioned the Community Integrated Skills Training initiative, approved by the Government of Meghalaya on January 16, 2026, which aims to integrate practical skills and community-based learning into education.
Earlier, Sumarbin Umdor, Pro Vice-Chancellor of NEHU Shillong Campus, delivered the Chairperson’s remarks. He emphasised that while skill development is important, the nation also needs leaders and encouraged teachers to motivate students to aspire for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services Examination and the Meghalaya Public Service Commission Examination.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Kuheli Biswas Das, Assistant Professor and Coordinator at UGC–MMTTC, NEHU Shillong.
