Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday laid the foundation stone of PA Sangma International Medical College and Hospital in Ri-Bhoi district. He said that it is true that the foundation stone of the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) was laid in the year when India is celebrating its 75th anniversary of independence and Meghalaya is celebrating its 50th year of statehood. This year also marks the 75th birth anniversary of the Chief Minister’s father PA Sangma, after whom the upcoming hospital is named.
The Chief Minister said that the first private medical college of the state would follow no less than the standard. He said that his father was instrumental in the establishment of USTM and naming the medical college after him was a tribute to the late leader. The Chief Minister said that the biggest investment the government or society can make is in human capital. He said that institutions should play a vital role in research and innovation.
He said, “The biggest innovations and ideas have come from students in schools and colleges. Although many institutions have lost track of this important factor, USTM still places a lot of impetus in research and innovation.” Shri Sangma further said that innovation and ideas should be linked with entrepreneurs. “Once the entrepreneurs are exposed, there will be complete engagement and exchange between young innovators, business schools and entrepreneurs, leading to the growth of the economy,” he said.
The CM said that intense discussions are going on on how the state government can collaborate with the USTM, especially for the medical college. Education Minister Lakhmen Rimbui and USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Haque were also present on the occasion.
