Shillong, Feb 21: North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Vice Chancellor Prof PS Shukla has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Shillong MP Dr Ricky AJ Syngkon, describing him as an “irreparable loss” to the academic community and the people he represented.
“Mr Syngkon embodied a rare confluence of public service and scholarship,” Shukla said in a condolence statement.
“As a parliamentarian, he carried the aspirations of his people with conviction, courage, and dignity. As a teacher and academic, he nurtured young minds with insight, integrity, and compassion.”
Shukla highlighted Dr Syngkon’s contributions to democratic discourse and higher education, saying his life stood as a “bridge between policy and pedagogy, and between governance and guidance — a testament to the transformative power of education in public life.”
“He believed in dialogue over division, service over self-interest, and knowledge as a force for societal progress,” Shukla added.
“His voice in Parliament and his presence in the classroom reflected the same unwavering commitment to nation-building and ethical leadership.”
On behalf of NEHU, Shukla expressed condolences to Dr Syngkon’s family, colleagues, students, and the people he served, saying, “We share in this moment of collective grief and salute a life dedicated to both intellect and public duty.”
Staff recall Dr Syngkon’s 23 years of service, contributions
Students, teaching and non-teaching staff of NEHU on Friday paid rich tribute to the Shillong MP, calling him “a dedicated academician and politician”.
A condolence meeting was held at the University’s Multi Use Convention Hall.
Prof. Rajkumar Giridhari Singh, Head of the Department of Commerce, recalled Dr Syngkon’s 23 years of service to the University, highlighting his specialization in Entrepreneurship and contributions to academic excellence and community development.
“He was devoted to academic excellence and community development,” Prof. Singh said.
Prof Moses M Naga, Dean, School of Economics, Management and Information Sciences, remembered Dr Syngkon as a kind-hearted teacher, saying, “His passing is a great loss to the University community.”
Prof Naga also spoke of Dr. Syngkon’s spiritual nature and humility.
Amoreena L. Nongpiur, representing research scholars, described Dr Syngkon as an exceptional supervisor, saying, “A supervisor like Dr Syngkon is difficult to find. The void he has left can never be filled.”
Prof. Sumarbin Umdor, Pro Vice-Chancellor, shared personal memories of his association with Dr. Syngkon, conveying condolences to the family and praying for the eternal repose of his soul.
Prof. Lakhon Kma, NEHUTA president, expressed his profound condolences to the bereaved family. He fondly recalled the time when he and Dr. Syngkon contested the MP elections, and Dr. Syngkon emerged victorious.
Prof. Kma shared that upon congratulating him through a message, Dr. Syngkon promptly called back to express his gratitude and emphasized working together for the benefit of the University, the state, and its people.
