Shillong, July 17: In a significant move to advance socio-economic development, the Government of Meghalaya and the Indian Institute of Management Shillong (IIM Shillong) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU was formalized in the presence of Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, and Shri Shishir Kumar Bajoria, Chairman of the Board of Governors of IIM Shillong. On the 189th death anniversary of U Tirot Sing Syiem, in remembrance of the sacrifices he made, Prof. D.P. Goyal, Director of IIM Shillong, and Shri Cyril V Diengdoh, Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Planning, Investment Promotion and Sustainable Development Department, signed the momentous MoU.
The MoU outlines several key initiatives focused on capacity building, leadership development, and practical engagements between the State Government and IIM Shillong. The primary activities
involved in this collaboration include:
1. Chief Minister’s State Business Plan Competition (College Level): A competition promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices among college students in Meghalaya.
2. Capacity Building and Global Leadership Programs: Designed for government officers to enhance their skills and leadership qualities, equipping them with tools to drive sustainable development.
3. Management Development Programs: Tailored for the Autonomous District Councils to strengthen administrative and governance capabilities.
4. Live Projects for IIM Shillong Students: Offering students at IIM Shillong practical experience by providing various opportunities to work with different government departments and block offices on real-world challenges.
Prof. D.P. Goyal highlighted the institute’s 16-year legacy of excellence and its contributions to Meghalaya’s development through high-quality academic research and innovative pedagogy. He also
highlighted initiatives already taken by the Institute and the Centre for Community Impact and Engagement for NE (NE-CCIE) for the welfare of society and its plans. Shri Shishir Kumar Bajoria, Chairman of the Board of Governors, highlighted the Institute’s growth over the years and the state government’s support, emphasizing the MoU’s significance for future collaborations.
At the signing ceremony, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma emphasized the significance of strategic interventions in addressing the state's social issues and pain points. He highlighted pioneering initiatives like the CM Connect scheme, the CM Entrepreneurship Challenge, and efforts to reduce the maternal mortality rate that were undertaken by the state. The Chief Minister called upon IIM Shillong’s bright students to leverage their skills and expertise in tackling these challenges to create a brighter future.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Prof. Teidorlang Lyngdoh of IIM Shillong. This partnership marks a significant step towards a stronger collaboration between the Government of Meghalaya and IIM Shillong, aimed at driving sustainable development and fostering innovation in the state.
