States » EastPosted at: Oct 23 2026 9:10PM


Meghalaya govt advocates paradigm shift to practical, skill-oriented technical learning

Jowai, Oct 23 (UNI) The Meghalaya government strongly advocates for a paradigm shift from conventional, textbook-based education to practical, skill-oriented learning, Education Department Commissioner & Secretary Vijay Kumar Mantri said on Friday.
Mantri was addressing “Technophilia 2,” a technical exhibition showcasing students’ creativity, innovative projects, practical skills, and technical expertise, organised by the Jowai Polytechnic Institute as part of its silver jubilee celebrations.
He encouraged institutions to prioritise hands-on training through laboratories, workshops, and real-world projects from the very beginning of students’ academic programmes.
Highlighting the growing accessibility of knowledge through digital platforms and artificial intelligence (AI), Mantri stressed that practical skills and technical competence are becoming increasingly important in meeting industry demands.
He also urged institutions to continuously update their curricula in line with technological advancements.
Citing examples from textile design and automobile engineering, Mantri underscored the importance of practical expertise, including garment pattern making, while encouraging students to adapt to emerging technologies, such as electric vehicles, through experimentation and prototype development.
Speaking on architectural assistantship, Mantri emphasised the importance of integrating traditional architectural aesthetics with modern designs suited to local terrain and climatic conditions.
He highlighted the importance of considering local terrain and heavy rainfall in architectural planning, particularly the need for sloping roofs and proper drainage to prevent water seepage and dampness.
Mantri also called for strong industry collaboration and encouraged the institute to explore consultancy and infrastructure design projects under the internal revenue generation policy.
Furthermore, Mantri suggested collaborating with the office of the Deputy Commissioner to identify opportunities for students and faculty members to participate in upcoming government projects.
Urging faculty members to maintain close engagement with industries, the Commissioner and Secretary stressed that technical education must equip students with practical skills, creativity, and adaptability to meet evolving professional demands.
Congratulating Jowai Polytechnic Institute on its silver jubilee, Directorate of Higher and Technical Education (DHTE) Joint Director (Technical) F.B.S. Ramsiej acknowledged the contributions of former and serving principals, faculty members, staff, students, and alumni.
He emphasised the need to modernise laboratories, improve academic facilities, and develop the institution into a centre of excellence in technical education.
Highlighting the importance of vocational education and multidisciplinary learning in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Ramsiej proposed a hub-and-spoke model to promote collaboration between technical and general educational institutions through shared resources and skill-based courses in architectural design, automobile engineering, and garment technology.
He also commended the institute for providing students with a platform to translate classroom knowledge into practical innovations that benefit society.
The exhibition provided students with a platform to present their innovative projects and demonstrate the value of hands-on learning in technical education.
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Tags: #Meghalaya govt advocates paradigm shift to practical# skill-oriented technical learning
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