Shillong, January 25: Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma Laid the Foundation Stone for Umpdem, RCUP School on 25th January 2025 in the Presence of Shri Batskhem Ryntathiang, MDC of 23-Mairang-Nongkhlaw Constituency, and Rev. Fr. Edward Sten, Assistant Parish Priest of Umsning Parish, Deputy Commissioner of Eastern West Khasi Hills, Smt Anita Kharpor, IAS and others.
It was for the first time that a Chief Minister of the state had visited Umpdem which is in the Eastern West Khasi Hills district.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Minister expressed his commitment to equitable development across Meghalaya. “Every citizen and every village is important to me. It is my duty as Chief Minister to ensure that development and opportunities reach every corner of the state, not just Shillong, Tura, or Jowai,” he said.
Emphasizing the importance of education, Sangma stated, “Investing in education is one of the most effective ways to ensure the long-term development of our society. Today’s foundation stone is a testament to our commitment to bringing quality education to the doorstep of every child in the state.”
The Chief Minister also announced financial assistance for various schools, including ₹5.96 lakhs each for Nongkseh RCLP School, Shilliang Khri Umtrew Presbyterian Upper Primary School, and Umpdem RCUP School for a girls’ hostel. Additionally, ₹1.5 lakhs was sanctioned for musical instruments for Umpdem RCUP School.
Addressing the local youth’s enthusiasm for music, Sangma remarked, “The talent here is remarkable, and I am happy to support the school with musical instruments. This is just the beginning, and I look forward to seeing this school grow into a major educational institution.”
Shri Batskhem Ryntathiang, the local MDC, highlighted the challenges faced by students in the region, including high transportation and accommodation costs. “It is my mission to make education accessible, affordable, and closer to the people. This initiative is a step toward ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and succeed,” he said.
The event also included the reading of two memorandums:
From Sister Grace Philip, Superior of the Little Workers of the Sacred Heart Convent – A request for the construction of a girls’ hostel at Umpdem RCUP School to address the growing demand for quality education in the region.
From Umpdem Village Authorities – A request for the development of infrastructure, including a motorable road from Nongkhlaw to Umpdem, the upgrading of the village sub-center to a Primary Health Center (PHC), and the construction of a football playground.
In his concluding remarks, Sangma assured the community of his continued support, saying, “This visit has left a lasting impression on me. I will ensure that Umpdem Village remains on our agenda for development. We cannot change everything overnight, but step by step, we will transform the lives of people here.”
The Chief Minister’s visit underscored the government’s focus on holistic development, bringing hope and opportunities to the grassroots level of Eastern West Khasi Hills.