Shillong, August 9: The Meghalaya Schools Welfare Development Association–Central Body (MSWDA-CB) has given the MDA Government one month to facilitate a meeting with Chief Minister Dr Conrad K. Sangma to discuss a range of issues concerning students, teachers and school managements across the State.

The Association adopted six resolutions during a meeting of school proprietors and managing authorities at the Khasi National Dorbar Hall, Mawkhar, Shillong, on August 8, under the leadership of MSWDA-CB President Babu H.M. Marbaniang.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Marbaniang said the Association had held extensive discussions on challenges confronting schools and on the recently released Meghalaya School Performance Grading Index (MSPGI).

He said while the MSPGI could help schools identify their strengths and areas requiring improvement, the Government must simultaneously address the long-standing problems affecting schools and teachers if Meghalaya is to improve its overall educational performance.

The Association called for greater attention to schools across the State, particularly those in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, citing continuing deficiencies in infrastructure, teaching facilities, manpower and financial assistance.

Demand for Grant-in-Aid

One of the key demands is the introduction of Grant-in-Aid for Secondary and Higher Secondary Schools that have remained outside the existing assistance system despite serving communities for several years.

The Association recalled that Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong had discussed the matter with its representatives on May 4, 2026, in the presence of Commissioner and Secretary Vijay Kumar Mantri, IAS.

The MSWDA-CB also raised concerns over SSA Non-NOC Schools, claiming that around 1,544 Lower Primary and Upper Primary schools, along with approximately 110 schools in the Garo Hills, have yet to receive adequate Government assistance.

The Association stressed that Pre-Primary and Lower Primary education must be strengthened as these stages form the foundation for a child’s future learning.

It also urged the Government to resolve the difficulties faced by teachers who obtained their Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) through NIOS in previous years.

Infrastructure, Digital Learning and Laboratories

The Association highlighted inadequate infrastructure and educational facilities in several schools, saying modern teaching and learning require schools to be equipped with appropriate facilities.

It called for stronger computer education and digital learning, particularly in schools lacking computers, internet connectivity and other technological resources.

The Association also sought adequate science laboratories and equipment, especially at the higher levels, arguing that practical subjects require hands-on learning and experimentation.

Strengthening school libraries and ensuring adequate books and learning materials were also highlighted as important measures to improve students’ learning beyond the classroom.

Sports and Staffing

The meeting further discussed the need to improve sports facilities and extracurricular activities, with the Association maintaining that education should contribute to students’ physical, intellectual, creative and overall development rather than focus solely on examination results.

The MSWDA-CB also called for special attention to schools that have served communities for years but continue to function with inadequate infrastructure and facilities.

It stressed that infrastructure development alone would not be enough and that schools must also have sufficient teachers and other staff to function effectively.

Central Schemes

The Association also discussed the implementation of Central Government schemes, including PM-POSHAN, Students’ Uniform Grant and Composite School Grant.

It called for more effective implementation and timely release of benefits to eligible schools and students.

Marbaniang said the Association’s objective was not merely to highlight problems but to consolidate the concerns of schools and place them before the Government so that lasting solutions could be worked out.

He recalled that the Association had also held a meeting in Tura on June 20, 2026, for schools in the Garo Hills, where representatives of Secondary and Higher Secondary Schools raised their respective concerns.

The MSWDA-CB expressed hope that the MDA Government, particularly the Education Department, would examine the six resolutions and take necessary action within the stipulated period.

Marbaniang stressed that investment in education should not be viewed merely as expenditure but as an investment in the future of children and Meghalaya.

The Association urged the Government to address the problems confronting schools so that students across the State can access quality education and opportunities comparable to those available elsewhere in the country.