Tura, May 5: In a crucial step towards expanding access to digital learning and promoting clean energy in Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday inaugurated a “Solar-Powered Classroom” at the 94-year-old Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School in Tura in West Garo Hills.
The solar-powered classroom consists of a smart classroom equipped with desktops, internet connectivity, and audio-visual and graphical content aligned with the school syllabus from Class 6 to Class 12.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said, “The solar-powered classroom project is an intervention aimed at ensuring students have access to digital learning. We are not only promoting clean energy through this initiative, but also striving to expand digital learning across different parts of the state.”
“Through this project, we are building an ecosystem that ensures our students, especially girls, have the power—literally and figuratively—to dream bigger,” he said.
The initiative is supported by the Great Himalayan Expedition (GHE), PA Sangma Foundation, and Shree Cement.
He also spoke at length about the state’s commitment to modernizing government schools and bringing them on par with private institutions. “We are developing customized School Development Plans for each school based on local needs, involving teachers, parents, and the community. This is decentralization in action,” he noted.
Reflecting on the broader goals of the state, he said, “Education, climate action, and gender equity are not separate issues—they are interconnected. When we build a solar classroom for girls, we are investing in all three at once.”
“Empowering girls through education is one of the most impactful ways to transform society. This school, with its rich history since 1931, has produced leaders and professionals who have made significant contributions to Meghalaya. With improved infrastructure and access to technology, its students will now have even greater opportunities to succeed,” he added.
Speaking on the importance of community ownership in sustaining development, the Chief Minister opined that real, lasting change requires the community to take ownership.
The solar-powered classroom features a hybrid power system to ensure uninterrupted electricity for digital learning. It is part of a broader School Development Plan, which includes renovation of infrastructure, digital literacy programs, provision of safe drinking water, improved sanitation, and plans to introduce Science and Commerce streams.
The plan envisions a comprehensive overhaul of existing facilities, including classroom renovations, repair of leaking roofs, installation of safe drinking water systems, improved sanitation, and the establishment of a digital library and a fully equipped ICT lab.
