SHILLONG: Shillong Polytechnic on Friday formally inaugurated its Diamond Jubilee celebrations under the theme “Vocationalising the Future,” marking six decades of contribution to technical education in Meghalaya.
The inaugural programme was graced by Commissioner and Secretary, Education Department, Vijay Kumar Mantri as the Chief Guest, and Director of Higher & Technical Education, H.D.B. Sangma as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Mantri underscored the growing importance of vocational and technical education, noting that only a small percentage of students pursue polytechnic studies despite thousands completing secondary education each year. He described the decision to opt for skill-based education as both rare and forward-looking, adding that it will play a decisive role in shaping the future workforce.
Highlighting evolving education trends, he said academic systems are gradually shifting towards practical, hands-on learning in line with reforms introduced by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Stressing employability, he observed that industries are increasingly prioritising skills and practical expertise over conventional degrees.
Mantri also spoke about the state government’s Community Integrated Skill Learning (CISL) initiative, aimed at integrating vocational training into school curricula from an early stage. The programme seeks to universalise skill-based education while encouraging students to learn from traditional and family-based occupations.
Calling for a stronger focus on experiential learning, he urged institutions to ensure that at least 50 percent of academic engagement is practical. He further recommended involving students in real-life projects and ongoing development works to enhance their job readiness. Emphasising industry collaboration, he highlighted the need for robust industry linkages, campus recruitment opportunities, and expansion of polytechnic institutions across the state.
In her address, Sangma stressed the importance of aligning technical education with emerging global challenges such as climate change and digital transformation. She encouraged institutions to incorporate practical projects related to sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, and disaster-resilient construction into their curriculum.
She also pointed to the growing relevance of emerging fields such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics, urging institutions to equip students with future-ready skills to enhance employability. Additionally, she emphasised the need to promote environmentally sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting and effective waste management.
Expressing confidence in the institution’s legacy, Sangma stated that Shillong Polytechnic, with its six decades of experience, is well-positioned to evolve into a hub of applied innovation and continue producing skilled, industry-ready graduates.
Marking the formal commencement of the year-long celebrations, Mantri and Sangma unveiled the commemorative plaque and officially declared the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Shillong Polytechnic open.
