Shillong, December 11 : Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the Academic Session 2025–26 of the Pahamsyiem Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) in Ri-Bhoi district today and laid the foundation stone for a new Synthetic Athletic Track at Chinchona, Pahamsyiem, Nongpoh.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of key state leaders, including Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla, Community & Rural Development Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, and MLA Mayral Born Syiem. Senior officials such as Banteilang J. Kharshandi, Director of School Education & Literacy and CEO of the Meghalaya Residential School Society, and Abhilash Baranwal, Deputy Commissioner of Ri-Bhoi, also attended.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized the central role of students in the programme. “This programme is for you today, you are the true guests of honor,” He expressed satisfaction at launching the academic session of the first EMRS in Pahamsyiem and thanked the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and national leadership for their support in creating new educational opportunities.
Highlighting the government’s vision for education, the Chief Minister stated that learning is not limited to textbooks or examinations but involves character building and value formation. He reminded students of the competitive selection process for EMRS admissions “Nearly 2,000 students applied, and only a select few were chosen. Value this opportunity and commit yourselves fully.”
Speaking on the upcoming Synthetic Athletic Track, Sangma said the project reflects the government’s dedication to equitable development across the state. “Development is for all regions, tribes, and communities… let us move beyond divisive factors.”
He also underscored Meghalaya’s economic momentum “Meghalaya is the second fastest-growing economy in India, with a real GDP growth of 10% annually over the last three years.” The Chief Minister further assured students that their requests for musical instruments and gardening tools would be fulfilled.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui reiterated the government’s priority toward strengthening education. He encouraged faculty to guide students toward becoming capable, confident individuals ready to excel in their future paths. The Synthetic Athletic Track project, implemented by the State Sports Council Meghalaya, aims to enhance sports facilities in Ri-Bhoi and create better training environments for young athletes.
As part of the event, the Chief Minister flagged off four vehicles under the Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY), implemented by the District Rural Development Agency under MSRLS. These vehicles will improve rural transportation and support livelihood initiatives for self-help groups.
The programme concluded with a vibrant cultural performance by EMRS students, celebrating the beginning of a new academic journey and the promise of improved educational and sports infrastructure in the region.
