Shillong, September 16: Nongkrem MLA Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit has urged the State Government to accord greater priority to primary education and ensure that teachers receive adequate recognition, infrastructure, resources and institutional support.
Basaiawmoit was speaking at a programme organised by the All Primary School Teachers’ Association (APSTA) at Smit Football Ground to commemorate the 177th death anniversary of Rev. Thomas Jones, regarded as the father of the Khasi alphabet.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma was scheduled to attend the programme as chief guest but could not participate. Basaiawmoit subsequently attended the event as chief guest.
In his address, Basaiawmoit said the commemoration was not only about remembering Rev. Thomas Jones but also about recognising a legacy of education, service, sacrifice and social transformation.
“The history of education in Meghalaya is inseparable from the history of the Khasi people and from the transformative power of the written word,” he said.
Highlighting 184 years of primary education in the State, the MLA said primary schools have formed the foundation for generations of children who went on to become teachers, officers, professionals and responsible citizens.
He also emphasised the role of teachers, saying they often work under difficult circumstances while educating and guiding young minds.
Basaiawmoit questioned whether teachers are receiving adequate recognition, conducive working conditions, infrastructure and institutional support.
He expressed gratitude to primary school teachers for their dedication and commended APSTA for preserving the legacy of Rev. Thomas Jones and acknowledging the contribution of primary teachers.
The Nongkrem legislator also pointed to challenges such as remote villages, difficult terrain, rural poverty and inadequate infrastructure. Despite these difficulties, he said children remain Meghalaya’s greatest strength and that investment in quality primary education is an investment in the State’s future.
He called for strengthening primary education across Meghalaya, including remote villages and border areas.
Basaiawmoit said the most meaningful way to honour Rev. Thomas Jones would be to continue advancing the cause of education and ensuring a better future for children.
“Every child in Meghalaya deserves access to quality education. Likewise, every teacher deserves the respect and support necessary to fulfil this noble responsibility,” he said.
