Shillong, Sept 14, 2025:
The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has expressed profound grief at the passing of Dr. D.D. Lapang, former Chief Minister of Meghalaya and Chancellor of USTM, who breathed his last at the age of 96.
In a condolence message, USTM described Dr. Lapang as a “guiding light and mentor”, whose vision and leadership greatly shaped the university’s mission of empowering youth through education. The university community remembered him not only as a towering political figure but also as a compassionate statesman who consistently championed the cause of human development, peace, and progress.
Dr. Lapang, one of Meghalaya’s most respected leaders, served multiple terms as Chief Minister and played a key role in strengthening democratic institutions in the state. As Chancellor of USTM, he inspired students and faculty alike to pursue excellence with a sense of service to society.
USTM will hold a condolence meeting on campus to honor his memory and contribution. The university has also announced that flags will fly at half-mast as a mark of respect.
“With his passing, we have lost not just a leader, but a fatherly figure who believed in education as the greatest tool for social transformation,” the statement read.
