SHILLONG: Meghalaya’s long-cherished dream of having its own medical college has finally been realised with the inauguration of the Shillong Medical College today, marking a historic milestone in the state’s healthcare and education sectors.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the college campus, where Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed hoisted the flag in the presence of Commissioner and Secretary Health department Dr. Joram Beda, officials of the Health Department, faculty members, and students of the institution.
Speaking to the media, Director of Shillong Medical College, Dr. Nicola Carrisa Lyngdoh Iangrai, expressed optimism over the establishment of the college, noting that many students had shown keen interest in pursuing studies there. However, she stated that the number of applicants far exceeded the available seats.
Dr. Iangrai said that the college would open new opportunities for students from Meghalaya who could not afford to study outside the state due to high expenses. She informed that the first batch comprises 50 MBBS students, of whom 42 are from the State of Meghalaya while 8 seats have been allotted under the central quota.
She further explained that students from the state would have an advantage through a government tie-up that allows them to pursue postgraduate (PG) courses upon completing their MBBS. Previously, many local students were unable to continue to PG studies due to the lack of seat quotas, she added.
Citing the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, Dr. Iangrai said that new medical colleges such as SMC are permitted to start PG programmes in 21 departments, with two seats per department. Discussions are underway with the state government to begin PG courses as early as next year.
Regarding seat distribution, she mentioned that for every two PG seats, one will be reserved for students from Meghalaya and one for students from other parts of the country.
Out of the 21 departments, around 10 to 11 are already equipped and prepared to commence PG programmes, supported by professors, senior residents, and other faculty members, Dr. Lyngdoh informed.
The inauguration of the Shillong Medical College marks a significant leap forward in Meghalaya’s journey toward self-reliance in medical education and healthcare development.
