Shillong, July 2: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday inaugurated Pine Mount School’s new Boarding Building, delivering on a pledge he made in 2022 after students complained of leaking roofs, damaged floors, and unsafe living conditions.
“When I visited the school in 2022, I saw firsthand the difficulties they were going through,” Sangma said, joined by Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui. “It gives me great satisfaction to be back today to inaugurate this new Boarding Building, dedicated to the boarders of this esteemed institution.”
The modern facility replaces the cramped, dilapidated hostel that had affected students’ well-being and learning. Sangma said it was moving to meet many of the same students again and see their excitement as they stepped into a space built for safety, hygiene, and dignity.
Stressing that education remains the government’s top priority, he added, “Change takes time, but what is important is that we act when we see a need. If we listen, respond, and work consistently, we can bring about real transformation.”
The Chief Minister also launched “She Thrives,” a sanitary pad vending machine initiative for girl students that will be rolled out across the state. “It is not just about providing sanitary pads or facilities, it is about changing mindsets,” he said, calling for a safe, enabling environment for every child.
On jobs, Sangma told students that government posts are limited and urged them to look to entrepreneurship and private enterprise. He said the state is pushing tourism, IT, agriculture, and food processing to create new opportunities. “The future lies in innovation. Look at the problems in your communities and think of ways to solve them,” he said.
