Ampati, Feb 15: Ampati Degree College marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its Silver Jubilee with a vibrant cultural program on Saturday. The event featured an array of performances, including traditional songs and dances, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.
The program commenced with a solemn prayer led by Mr. Eligious Sengbat G. Momin, Lecturer in the Department of Education, followed by a warm welcome address delivered by the Principal, Dr. Mamunur R. M. Willy.
Deputy Commissioner of South West Garo Hills, Hema Nayak, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In her address, she commended the institution for its remarkable achievement, highlighting the challenges faced in establishing a college in Ampati’s unique geographical setting. She acknowledged the founders’ dedication and underscored the importance of higher education in the district.
Nayak also emphasized the necessity of career counseling for students, recommending the formation of a dedicated cell to guide them in their future endeavors. She encouraged the students to harness the power of digital learning and social media to broaden their knowledge and apply it to various sectors such as agriculture and weaving. Concluding her speech with the phrase, “Knowledge is Power,” she inspired students to strive for academic and personal excellence.
The Secretary of the Governing Body, Clement G. Momin, also addressed the gathering, reflecting on the college’s origins and the challenges faced in its establishment. He noted that prior to the college’s inception, many students were forced to seek higher education in Tura and Shillong, often facing accommodation and financial constraints. Ampati Degree College, he remarked, was a necessity that became a reality through persistent community efforts.
A Brief History of Ampati Degree College:
The vision for higher education in South West Garo Hills began decades ago. Despite attempts in 1980 and 1995, financial constraints and manpower shortages delayed the establishment of a college. Finally, on February 15, 2000, the college was founded under the leadership of Lt. Nolledhy S. Daring, Lasker from Ampati.
Initially, classes were conducted in the residence of Shri. Crening D. Sangma, the A.king Nokma of Chengkompara, before shifting to a temporary location on land provided by Smt. Agnish G. Sangma. During a visit, the late P.A. Sangma pledged support, allocating Rs. 5,00,000 from the MPLAD Scheme for the construction of a permanent building and a monthly grant-in-aid of Rs. 35,000.
Overcoming numerous challenges, the institution secured its current campus on an 8.2-acre plot, with its main building inaugurated by Smt. Agatha K. Sangma, former MP, in 2008. Recognizing its role in higher education, the Meghalaya government included the college under the “People’s College Grant-in-Aid Scheme” in 2020.
Current Status and Academic Offerings:
Today, Ampati Degree College stands as a beacon of learning in the region, with an annual intake capacity of 550 students in the Arts stream. The college offers eight honors subjects—English, Garo, Assamese, History, Political Science, Economics, Philosophy, and Education—under North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) affiliation.
With a dedicated faculty of 23 lecturers and eight non-teaching staff, the college continues to expand its facilities and academic programs. It remains committed to providing quality education to the students of Ampati and beyond.
Chronology of Leadership:
Secretaries (Administrative Heads):
- Shri Binvichand D. Sangma (Feb 15, 2000 – Feb 17, 2022)
- Shri Clement G. Momin (Feb 18, 2022 – Present)
Principals (Academic Heads):
- Shri Mofazzal Hoque (Aug 1, 2000 – Aug 16, 2010)
- Shri Bricktone N. Sangma (Aug 17, 2010 – May 13, 2018)
- Dr. Mamunur Rafique Mondal Willy (June 19, 2018 – Present)
As Ampati Degree College commemorates 25 years of excellence, it looks forward to further growth, continuing its mission of empowering students and serving as a pillar of higher education in Meghalaya.
