Conrad throws weight behind USTM
Shillong, Feb 28: Chief minister Conrad K Sangma has sought to allay fears of student community in the wake of a controversy around University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), saying the degrees obtained from USTM are “genuine”.
“Absolutely, the degrees (issued by USTM) are genuine. They have been giving these for many years,” he said replying to a question from reporters on Friday.
The comment bears significance in view of neighbouring Assam’s chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma consistently berating USTM with claims that the university offered “fake” degrees.
The recent arrest of USTM chancellor Mahbubul Hoque by Assam police over allegations of exam malpractice in a school run by Hoque-led ERD Foundation in Assam has even fuelled tension between the two states.
ERD Foundation runs several institutions, including USTM, the largest private educational institution in the North East.
Asserting that there is no discrepancy about the degrees offered by USTM, Sangma however sought to distance himself from the arrest issue.
“I am clarifying on behalf of USTM and Meghalaya saying that all the permissions and necessary documentations are in order and there is nothing wrong,” he said, adding, “Regarding the comments made by my counterpart (Assam CM), that is something he has to answer…”
The chief minister further acknowledged the contributions made by USTM to the state’s education sector, saying, “They are contributing greatly to the youth of our state.”
“You can find out from different individuals, officials and students studied there and they will tell you that USTM has the best infrastructure and the best environment, best staff and manpower,” he said.
“We are happy that a university like this is there in Meghalaya,” he added.
On the challenges faced by USM in requisite permissions, he said, ‘We are happy things are moving and there is no issue at all.”
