SHILLONG : Jowai Public School and Kiddies Corner Secondary School secured first positions in the solo and group categories, respectively, at the State-Level Inter-School Traditional Singing Competition organised under Reform Utsav – Jan Jatiya Gaurav Divas 2026 in Shillong.

The competition was organised by the Department of Arts and Culture, Government of Meghalaya, at the State Central Library, Shillong, on October 15, witnessing enthusiastic participation from schools and colleges across the state.

Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai attended the programme as the chief guest, while Principal Secretary Frederick Roy Kharkongor, IAS, was present as the guest of honour.

The participating students showcased traditional tunes, melodies, beats and rhythms rooted in Meghalaya’s indigenous customs and cultural heritage. Their performances highlighted the diversity of the state’s traditional music and the importance of preserving these cultural traditions among younger generations.

In the solo category, Jowai Public School secured first place, followed by St. Margaret Higher Secondary School in second place and All Saints Diocesan Higher Secondary School in third place.

In the group category, Kiddies Corner Secondary School emerged as the winner. All Saints Diocesan Higher Secondary School secured second place, while St. Margaret Higher Secondary School finished third.

The competition provided students with a platform to demonstrate their musical talents while encouraging greater appreciation for Meghalaya’s traditional music and indigenous cultural heritage.

The initiative also highlighted the importance of passing on traditional songs, musical practices and cultural knowledge to future generations as part of efforts to preserve the state’s rich cultural identity.