Shillong, Apr 1: Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday presented the Meghalaya IT Awards 2026 to 203 meritorious students of the 2025 academic year at the U Soso Tham Auditorium.
The programme, organised by the Information Technology & Communications Department, Government of Meghalaya, was attended by Lahkmen Rymbui and other dignitaries. Laptops were distributed to the awardees as part of the initiative.
Congratulating the students, the Chief Minister said their achievements reflected dedication, discipline, and perseverance. He described the awards as a recognition of their hard work and an encouragement to pursue greater goals.
Sangma noted that the laptops symbolise more than material value, representing the government’s confidence in the students’ potential. He emphasised that the initiative aims to celebrate merit and support academic excellence.
Highlighting global trends, he said rapid technological advancements are transforming the world, creating both challenges and opportunities. Referring to developments in the IT sector, he observed that while disruptions may occur, they also open new avenues for innovation and growth.
Pointing to progress within the state, he said the IT Park in Shillong is attracting companies working in advanced fields such as Artificial Intelligence and enterprise systems. He added that local talent is contributing to technological innovations with global applications.
Reflecting on his own journey, Sangma said his experiences after studying at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania highlighted the importance of building a strong ecosystem for entrepreneurship and innovation, which the government is now actively promoting.
He also underlined emerging opportunities in sectors such as technology, sports, music, and clean energy, noting that Meghalaya is exploring ethanol-based alternatives as part of sustainable development efforts.
Encouraging students to follow their passion, he stressed the importance of determination and humility, stating that true success lies in staying grounded while striving for excellence.
Speaking on the occasion, Rymbui highlighted the growing role of digital technology in education and everyday life. He said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to empowering students through access to digital tools.
Describing the laptops as “gateways to the digital world,” he said they would enable students to enhance their knowledge and skills. He also highlighted government efforts to support education, including scholarship schemes and financial assistance programmes.
Rymbui informed that over ₹60 crore has been allocated to provide financial assistance of ₹6,000 to students. He also spoke about the Community Integrated Skills Learning programme, aimed at developing competencies from the elementary level to Class 10.
Expressing concern over declining participation in civil services, he urged students to aspire for excellence and contribute meaningfully to society.
Earlier, K. L. Nongbri, Joint Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, delivered the welcome address and provided an overview of the initiative. He said the Meghalaya IT Awards, instituted in 2007, aim to recognise academic excellence and promote digital empowerment through the distribution of laptops.
This year, 203 students from Classes 10 and 12 were honoured, including 131 from MBOSE, 51 from CBSE, and 21 from ICSE. Two specially-abled students were also among the awardees.
Leisha Agarwal of St Margaret’s Higher Secondary School, the 2025 MBOSE Class 10 topper, also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude for the recognition, which she described as both an honour and an encouragement.
