Baishali Mukherjee

On December 6, The University Grants Commission (UGC) officially recognized Captain Williamson Sangma State University, the first state-owned varsity in Meghalaya, marking a significant milestone for the state’s higher education landscape. 

In a letter addressed to the Registrar, the UGC confirmed the inclusion of the university in the list of institutions established under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, 1956. This recognition empowers the university to award degrees under Section 22 of the UGC Act, 1956, through its own departments, constituent colleges, or affiliated colleges in regular mode. However, prior approval from relevant regulatory councils or commissions is required for professional, technical, and medical programs. Moreover, the university is restricted to awarding degrees only as specified by the UGC, adhering to the UGC’s 2014 Notification on Specification of Degrees and subsequent amendments. The university will also get necessary accreditation from NAAC.

The establishment of Captain Williamson Sangma State University is a tribute to the late Captain Williamson Sangma, Meghalaya’s first Chief Minister and a pivotal figure in the statehood movement. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed pride in the development, calling it a significant step for the state’s educational advancement. In a social media post, he stated, “Congratulations to the people of Meghalaya! The University Grants Commission has granted recognition to Captain Williamson Sangma State University, marking the official commencement of the state’s first university. We look forward to its success in advancing the education and future of our youth.”

The university was established as a State Public University under the Captain Williamson Sangma Technical University (Amendment) Act, 2003 (Meghalaya Act No. 12 of 2023), which amended the Captain Williamson Sangma Technical University Act, 2011. This amendment came into force on October 19, 2023, as per notification No. EDN.16/2015/Pt/107 dated October 28, 2024.

Additionally, Chief Minister Sangma highlighted the practical benefits of the university’s recognition. He noted that colleges affiliated with the state university would exempt their students from appearing for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) in the future. The UGC recognition is expected to significantly boost educational opportunities in Meghalaya, fostering a robust academic ecosystem for students across the region. The state government of Meghalaya announced Dr. Vasanthi Vijayakumar as the Vice Chancellor of the Captain Williamson Sangma State University in Tura.