The closing ceremony of the Golden Jubilee Celebration (1975–2025) of Nartiang Presbyterian Higher Secondary School (NPHSS), Modop, was held today, graced by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma as the Chief Guest. Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar attended as the Guest of Honour. The event was also attended by several dignitaries, including Thombor Shiwat, CEM, JHADC; Tbn. H. Khynriam, Chairman, SMC, NPHSS, Modop; I.J.R. Tongper, Principal, NPHSS, Modop, among others.
The Chief Minister in his address to the gathering said, “Today, this school has completed 50 years of its journey with many more years and decades to come. I compliment Nartiang Presbyterian Higher Secondary School for its immense contribution to society and express my gratitude to everyone who has contributed towards the school.”
Highlighting the government’s education initiatives since 2018, he said that education has been a priority sector of the government and noted that over the past few years, the education budget had increased from ₹2,000 crores to ₹3,500 crores annually, making it the highest in the state. He added that this investment was beginning to show the transformation the government desired.
On holistic education, the Chief Minister emphasized, “Education is not just about books or degrees—it is about building character. It instills discipline, faith, patriotism, and respect for elders, hard work, commitment, and, a sense of purpose. True education nurtures children into individuals of strong character.”
He also shared insights into Meghalaya’s educational density, noting, “Tripura, with a population of over 45 lakh, has around 4,000 schools. Manipur, with a population similar to Meghalaya, has about 5,000 schools. Nagaland has roughly 4,000 schools. Meghalaya, however, has 14,000 schools—10,000 more than Tripura. We have 55,000 teachers, while Manipur has 36,000 and Tripura 40,000, despite their larger populations.”
Acknowledging challenges in school rationalization, the Chief Minister observed that there were 206 schools with full teaching capacity but no students, and about 2,000 schools had 5–7 teachers for only one to five students. He said that rationalization was complex because many livelihoods depended on these positions.
On reforms, the Chief Minister stated that the government was finalizing a structured salary system for ad hoc and SSA teachers, which would provide job security, incremental salary increases, and post-retirement benefits, and he expected a final decision before Christmas.
Regarding student opportunities, he announced that the government was assessing the demand for science streams not just at NPHSS but across all higher secondary schools, and that it was committed to ensuring students could pursue subjects of their choice without limitation.
He also announced support for NPHSS, saying that he was pleased to contribute ₹20 lakh from his Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund for the extension of the school building. He added that the government was actively working with the Government of India to support the establishment of girls’ hostels, which would open up opportunities for girls across Meghalaya.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar reflecting on the school’s journey, said, “This journey has not been easy. There were challenges, and at times the school faced difficulties—but through the hard work of the community, teachers, and managing committee, we have reached this joyous moment. We hope the students of this school will go on to become doctors, engineers, leaders, and successful individuals who will bring pride to our village.”
The Golden Jubilee Souvenir was formally released during the occasion. The celebrations also featured cultural presentations, including the School Anthem and a captivating Fusion Dance performed by the students.
