SHILLONG, DEC 10: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday informed that the government is in the final stages of a major decision to restructure the salary system for approximately 20,000 ad hoc and SSA teachers.
Addressing at the closing ceremony of the platinum jubilee celebration of Umphyrnai Presbyterian School (LP section), Sangma stated that the proposed structure would provide stability, clarity on increments, and security for the future.
“It is not the government system, but it is a new system that offers stability,” he said.
He added that the government currently spends ₹1,200 crore annually on grant-in-aid for deficit, ad hoc schools and colleges, describing it as “an investment in society.”
The chief minister also outlined the challenges surrounding teacher qualification standards and noted that many teachers who previously did not meet national norms are now steadily moving toward fulfilling the required criteria, thanks to support and flexibility provided by the government.
Sangma said that the State has nearly 25 associations representing different categories of teachers, resulting in a highly complex administrative structure.
He clarified that the challenges persist not due to a lack of teachers, funding, or policy gaps but because of “a highly fragmented structure” within the education system.
He stressed the need to look forward and find solutions, assuring that the government would not adopt measures that harm livelihoods. “We must take decisions with empathy, and while fixing the system, we must carry everyone along,” he said.
Following the unveiling of the Jubilee Tablet, Sangma addressed congratulated the school on reaching this significant milestone.
He highlighted that education has remained one of the government’s foremost priorities since 2018 and noted that numerous government LP, UP, secondary, and higher secondary schools, along with colleges, have been upgraded through various intervention programmes.
He emphasised that while progress has been made, the journey continues. “The foundation has been laid, and step by step, the infrastructure in our schools is improving,” he said.
Reflecting on the school’s history, the Chief Minister commended the perseverance of the institution and its managing committee over the decades. He expressed admiration for the Principal’s long service, noting that she joined the school in 1978. “It is truly inspiring that a student of this school is today the principal,” he said.
Drawing a parallel between the school’s Jubilee theme—“Sow in tears, reap in joy”—and the daily message he had read that morning on determination, the Chief Minister said that no challenge is too big when one has a purpose.
Announcing support for the school’s infrastructure, he informed the gathering that ₹20 lakh would be provided from the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund for the extension of the school building and also musical instruments for the school.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister expressed hope that the institution would continue to shape young minds and transform lives.
Earlier, Rev. C. Lamare delivered the Welcome Address, reflecting on its 75-year journey of the school. He acknowledged the contributions of former and present teachers, the church, the managing committees, parents, and students, describing the Jubilee as a moment of celebration and renewed commitment.
Headmistress B. Kharumnuid presented the history of the institution, which began before 1950 as a Lower Primary school established by missionaries under the Umphyrnai Presbyterian Church. She informed the gathering about the upgradation of the school to Upper Primary level in 1995 and to Secondary level in 2005, with permission granted to run the Secondary section in 2010, followed by full affiliation under MBOSE in 2015.
She highlighted the school’s consistent record of high SSLC results, often achieving a 100% pass rate. The school currently has 380 students and 16 teachers, with 48 students set to appear for the SSLC Examination 2026. She also announced that the school aims to introduce the Higher Secondary section as part of its Platinum Jubilee vision.
Village Headman L. Kharkongor expressed hope that the institution would continue to uphold its mission with dedication.
Also present during the function were Lambor Malngiang, Ex-MLA, as the Guest of Honour, alongside church leaders, village authorities, and members of the school community.
