Shillong: Shillong Polytechnic on Friday inaugurated its year-long Diamond Jubilee celebrations under the theme “Vocationalising the Future,” highlighting the growing importance of skill-based and technical education in today’s rapidly evolving world.
The programme was graced by Commissioner and Secretary of the Education Department, Vijay Kumar Mantri, as the chief guest, along with H.D.B. Sangma, who attended as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Mantri emphasised the significance of vocational and technical education, noting that only a small percentage of students opt for polytechnic courses despite thousands completing their secondary education every year. He described such a choice as both rare and forward-looking, adding that skill-based education will play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce.
He pointed out that education systems are gradually shifting towards practical learning, in line with reforms introduced by the Central Board of Secondary Education. Stressing employability, he said industries today increasingly prioritise skills and hands-on expertise over conventional academic degrees.
The Commissioner also highlighted the state government’s Community Integrated Skill Learning (CISL) initiative, which aims to introduce vocational training at an early stage within the school curriculum. The programme seeks to universalise skill education and encourage students to gain practical knowledge, including exposure to traditional family-based occupations.
Calling for a more practical approach to learning, Mantri urged institutions to ensure that at least 50 percent of academic engagement is hands-on. He suggested involving students in real-life projects and ongoing development works to enhance their skills and job readiness. He also stressed the importance of strengthening industry linkages, promoting campus recruitment, and expanding polytechnic institutions across the state.
In her address, Sangma underlined the need to align technical education with emerging global challenges such as climate change and digital transformation. She encouraged institutions to incorporate practical projects related to sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, and disaster-resilient construction into their curriculum.
She also highlighted the increasing demand for skills in areas such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics, urging institutions to equip students accordingly to improve employability. Additionally, she called for promoting environmentally sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting and effective waste management systems.
Expressing confidence in the institution’s legacy, she stated that Shillong Polytechnic, with over six decades of experience, has the potential to evolve into a centre of applied innovation and continue producing skilled, job-ready graduates.
Marking the formal beginning of the celebrations, Mantri and Sangma jointly unveiled the commemorative plaque and officially declared the Diamond Jubilee celebrations open.