SHILLONG, JUN 3: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday chaired a high-level review of Meghalaya’s performance in the Performance Grading Index, directing deputy commissioners and the Education Department to work in “mission-mode” to improve learning outcomes and infrastructure across the state.

During the meeting, officials presented the indicators under the PGI framework and detailed ongoing reforms in foundational learning, teacher welfare, school infrastructure, vocational education, and data systems.

The Chief Minister said the government is committed to ensuring quality education for every child.

“Meghalaya remains firmly committed to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that every child in the State has access to quality education,” he said.

He added that the state has already achieved wide access and must now shift focus to quality. “We have ensured that every child has access to a school; our next goal is to ensure that every school delivers the highest quality of learning.”

“We are aware where Meghalaya stands, and we are equally aware of the progress we are making. Education is a long-term investment, and the reforms we have undertaken over the last few years—from strengthening support for our teachers to focusing on foundational learning and improving school infrastructure—are laying the foundation for lasting change,” Sangma said.

Officials noted that Meghalaya has nearly 14,600 schools for a population of about 30 lakh, calling it one of the most accessible systems in the Northeast.

“The extensive network reflects the State’s longstanding commitment to ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to schooling,” the presentation said.

The review flagged “Learning Outcomes” as the highest-weightage PGI parameter and a key focus area. Initiatives on foundational literacy and numeracy, classroom teaching, and student support are being rolled out statewide.

On infrastructure, officials said phased upgrades are underway for science labs, ICT facilities, smart classrooms, libraries, kitchen gardens, rainwater harvesting, drinking water, and solar power in schools. The Chief Minister directed district-level ownership of reforms.

He asked deputy commissioners and district administrations “to work closely with the Education Department in a mission-mode approach to accelerate implementation, identify gaps, and ensure timely delivery of key interventions.”

Vocational education was highlighted as a major thrust area through the Community Skill Integrated Curriculum, which introduces practical, skill-based learning from primary to secondary levels. Student welfare measures under review included upgrades to the Mid-Day Meal programme and installation of sanitary pad vending machines and incinerators in girls’ schools. Sangma directed the department “to continue closely monitoring all performance indicators and undertake targeted interventions wherever necessary” and assured “full government support to ensure that schools receive the resources and assistance required to achieve measurable improvements.”

On data and governance, the state is working to improve digital reporting, Aadhaar integration, and institutional record management to ensure progress is captured in national assessments.

Under the school rationalization programme, 3,198 of 14,582 schools have already been merged or consolidated “enabling better utilization of teachers, improved resource allocation, and enhanced delivery of educational services,” officials said.

The Chief Minister called for a “strategic, scientific, and data-driven approach” with regular assessments and strong coordination between schools, districts, and the state.

He also stressed “clear communication, effective monitoring, and timely reporting to ensure that Meghalaya’s educational achievements and ongoing reforms are fully reflected in future evaluations.”

An official clarified that “the PGI score reflects structural, administrative and data reporting challenges, while it does not reflect the talent or potential of our children, which is second to none.”

“The review reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive, and future-ready education system that equips every child in Meghalaya with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to succeed,” the statement added.