SHILLONG: The ability to read, write, and understand basic text remains fundamental in today’s world—not only for the youth but also for adults who may have missed out on formal education earlier in life.
The Directorate of School Education and Literacy, in collaboration with the State Literacy Mission Authority, Government of Meghalaya, organised the ULLAS Fest 2026 on April 10 at U Soso Tham Auditorium. The event was attended by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma as the Chief Guest, with Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui as Guest of Honour, alongside senior officials including Commissioner and Secretary, Education Department, Vijay Kumar Mantri.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored that it is “never too late” to pursue education. He shared that earlier in the day, he had hosted SSLC toppers at his residence to recognise their achievements, calling the gesture small yet meaningful and a source of motivation for others.
Sangma emphasised that while celebrating academic excellence is important, the government remains equally committed to ensuring that no one is left behind. He stressed the need to focus on adults and elderly citizens who aspire to become literate, noting that the mission of education would remain incomplete if it fails to reach those previously deprived of such opportunities.
Highlighting the significance of the ULLAS initiative, he described it as a noble effort aimed at reaching every section of society. He pointed out that while education may seem basic to those with access to schooling, many individuals missed such opportunities due to past limitations.
Lauding the Education Department’s efforts, Sangma remarked that reforms in education take time to show results. Comparing it to planting a tree, he said the seeds sown today will bear fruit in the years to come, benefiting future generations. He also acknowledged that challenges and criticism are inevitable, urging society to maintain a positive outlook and work collectively towards progress.
Reiterating the importance of unity and a constructive approach, he called upon citizens to contribute towards the state’s development and welfare.
Speaking on the occasion, Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui expressed gratitude to the department and volunteers working towards achieving universal literacy in the state. He highlighted that nearly two lakh people in Meghalaya are still not considered literate, clarifying that literacy goes beyond formal qualifications and includes basic reading, writing, and numeracy skills.
Referring to national initiatives, Rymbui noted that the Government of India has consistently promoted literacy programmes—from Operation Blackboard to adult education schemes, and now the ULLAS mission, which aims to make India fully literate by 2027. He pointed out that Meghalaya needs approximately 38,000 more literate individuals to reach the 95 percent literacy benchmark.
While acknowledging the challenges, he urged volunteers, educators, and district authorities to work collaboratively to achieve this goal. Drawing inspiration from states like Mizoram, he expressed confidence that Meghalaya can meet the target within the stipulated timeframe.
Rymbui further emphasised that literacy empowers individuals and builds confidence, sharing examples of learners who now take pride in their ability to read and write. He added that such transformation not only impacts individuals but also encourages younger generations to stay in school.
Appealing to the youth, he urged them to step forward as volunteers and actively contribute to the mission. He also called for making April 24, 2026, a landmark day by ensuring maximum participation in the literacy assessment, expressing hope that Meghalaya will achieve its goal of becoming a fully literate state.
During the programme, the Chief Minister and the Education Minister distributed certificates to participants from various districts who had appeared for the examinations. Elderly learners above 80 years of age were also felicitated, and awareness videos in Khasi and Jaintia languages were launched to promote the importance of education.
