Meghalaya Chief Minister Inaugurates Transformative Eklavya Model Residential School
In a significant development for tribal education in the region, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma officially inaugurated the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Samanda, Rikwarenggre, in East Garo Hills district on Friday. The ceremony marked the commencement of the school's academic session, with the CM highlighting its potential to be a transformative institution for tribal students across the state.
A Vision for Holistic Tribal Education
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sangma emphasized that the school would provide free, residential, and quality education to tribal students. He stated, "The school will be a transformative institution for tribal students, offering free, residential, and quality education." Beyond academic excellence, the CM outlined that the EMRS would focus on holistic development through comprehensive programs in sports, skill training, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Sangma elaborated on the broader importance of education, remarking, "Education is the biggest agent of change and the biggest development for a nation, state, and society." He stressed that investments in quality educational institutions like EMRS would yield long-term benefits for the youth, ultimately contributing to societal progress.
Statewide Educational Reforms and Infrastructure Upgrades
The Chief Minister provided updates on several educational initiatives underway in Meghalaya. He noted that the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBOSE) syllabus has been upgraded and the examination system streamlined. These reforms, along with the introduction of CM Impact Books for Class X students, contributed to an impressive 96% pass rate in last year's SSLC examinations.
Furthermore, Sangma announced that renovation efforts would be extended to Ad Hoc, SSA, and deficit schools across the state. He confirmed that the pay structure for SSA teachers has been finalized, addressing longstanding concerns. The CM also revealed plans to address telecom connectivity issues at the school by engaging with relevant authorities.
National Initiative with Modern Facilities
Principal M Nandagopal explained that the EMRS is an initiative of the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, launched in 1997-98 to provide quality residential education to scheduled tribe students in remote areas. Each school is designed to accommodate approximately 480 students and is equipped with modern facilities, including:
- State-of-the-art science laboratories
- Advanced computer laboratories
- Comprehensive libraries
The schools follow the CBSE curriculum to ensure students remain academically competitive, aligning with the government's objective of establishing such institutions in tribal-dominated blocks nationwide.
Expanding Network and Support Systems
Chief Minister Sangma disclosed that there are currently 38 EMRS schools operational across Meghalaya. He expressed gratitude to the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Prime Minister for their continued support in expanding this educational network. Additionally, Sangma announced funding for 20 computers under the CM's Special Development Fund to enhance the school's technological infrastructure.
This inauguration represents a crucial step in Meghalaya's commitment to improving educational access and quality for tribal communities, combining state reforms with national initiatives to create comprehensive learning environments.
