Shillong,July 21 : In response to recent criticism from Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister Dr. Mukul Sangma, Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma has urged all legislators and public representatives to contribute actively towards the improvement of school infrastructure in Meghalaya, particularly in the Garo Hills region.
Dr. Mukul had accused the state government of neglecting the dilapidated condition of government Lower and Upper Primary Schools in the Garo Hills, despite the availability of disaster relief funds and persisting teacher shortages. Reacting to the remarks, Rakkam acknowledged the existing challenges but reminded the former Chief Minister of his own tenure.
“Let us not forget that during his time as Chief Minister, no government school buildings were constructed. My own father served as a private primary teacher and saw no improvements during that period,” Rakkam stated.
Highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts, the Education Minister said that under the leadership of the current Chief Minister, work is underway to renovate and rebuild thousands of school buildings. “We have over 14,000 educational institutions in the state. So far, we’ve reached 3,000 to 4,000. Around 50% of schools are in urgent need of repair,” he said.
Citing personal initiatives, Rakkam shared that he has renovated 45 Ad-hoc and SSA schools in his Rongara-Siju constituency using his MLA scheme funds, spending ₹2 lakh per school. He called on all MLAs to take similar steps, suggesting that if each legislator undertook 50 schools per year, significant progress could be achieved.
He also appealed to MPs, MDCs, and other elected representatives to go beyond mere photo ops and contribute their funds towards improving educational infrastructure. “Let’s not play the blame game. Let us preach what we practice. Instead of pointing fingers, let’s come together and build,” he said.
