Mawryngkneng, June 20: Jubilee Secondary School in Mawryngkneng held a heartfelt commemorative programme on Monday to honour Thomas Jones, widely revered as the Father of the Khasi Alphabet. The event, organized in the school hall, paid tribute to his enduring contributions to the educational and literary development of the Khasi community.
Led by the school principal, Rev. A.M. Lawai, the programme drew the participation of teachers, students, and parents. Although Thomas Jones Day is officially observed on June 22, which this year falls on a Sunday, the school opted to celebrate it earlier to ensure wider involvement.
MLA of Mawryngkneng, Bah Heavingstone Kharpran, graced the occasion as the chief guest. In his address, he reflected on the life and legacy of Thomas Jones, emphasizing the transformative impact the Welsh missionary had on the Khasi people.
“Had it not been for this missionary, the Khasi people might have remained in darkness,” Bah Kharpran said, recalling the challenges Jones faced in Sohra and the opposition he encountered from British soldiers for his decision to settle in the Khasi Hills and educate children under the open sky.
Bah Kharpran also lauded the students who recently appeared for their matriculation exams. While the school did not feature in the top twenty rankings, he praised the efforts of the students and acknowledged the 15 percent pass rate as a foundation to build upon.
A notable highlight of the programme was the announcement of a new initiative: the Thomas Jones Academic Award, to be presented annually to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance.
Rev. J.L. Warlarpih, Senior Executive Secretary of the KJP Synod Mihngi, delivered an inspiring speech tracing the evolution of Khasi education. “Thomas Jones introduced the Khasi script and illuminated our people through literacy and learning. The school proudly upholds his legacy,” he said.
The event concluded with vibrant cultural presentations, including songs and poetry by the Jingiaseng Samla Presbyterian Mawryngkneng, adding colour and spirit to the occasion.
The gathering stood as a moving testament to the gratitude felt by the community—celebrating the legacy of a man who laid the foundation for Khasi literacy and cultural identity.
