Meghalaya Governor Satya Pal Malik on Friday unveiled two portraits of the freedom fighters from the state – U Tirol Sing Syiem and U Kiang Nangbah at a function held at the North Eastern Hill University (NEHU).
Addressing the occasion, the Governor, who is the Chief Rector of NEHU, expressed his delight on visiting the premier seat of education in the North East.
Congratulating NEHU on recognizing the supreme sacrifices of the two warriors of Meghalaya, the Governor mentioned that in Raj Bhavan too the portraits of the two are hung.
The Governor said that he read up on the two warriors and was impressed that at the very young age the two achieved something that would continue to inspire generations to come.
He urged the Vice Chancellor to create a seat of research on U Tirot Sing and U Kiang Nangbah so that the entire country would come to know about other freedom fighters too.
The Governor also spoke on education as a means of empowerment. He credited his education for his achievements in life and called the five years of college life the best years of his life.
He also said that he would gladly give up everything if he could get them back.
“Education empowers you,” he said adding that those societies that prioritise education have progressed.
Recalling the time when he was looking after Parliamentary Affairs, he lamented the fact that there has never been much debate on education. The quality of education suffers when wealthy and powerful people don’t contribute to the cause of education.
“The Government alone cannot do everything if those with means do not pitch in,” he added.
On a lighter note, the Governor said he was looking forward to have a cup of tea in the University canteen because that is where he would spend most of his time when he was a student.
Earlier, the function kicked off with a welcome address by the Registrar followed by a brief note on the achievements of university by the Vice Chancellor Prof SK Srivastava, who announced that two of the guest houses on NEHU have been named after the two freedom fighters from Meghalaya.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Pro-Vice Chancellor, Shillong campus.
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