Shillong: North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong marked its 52nd founding anniversary on Monday with a significant two-fold launch: its official anthem and a comprehensive institutional history. The celebrations, however, were tinged with candid acknowledgements from leadership regarding the university’s recent dip in national rankings, coupled with resolute pledges to reclaim its former academic glory.
The institution, which has seen its National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) position slide from the top 20 to the 101-150 band in 2024, utilised this pivotal anniversary to signal a renewed commitment to academic excellence. The cornerstone of the celebration was the unveiling of “Rise Up and Build,” the university’s official anthem, set to music by Uttam Sharma and penned by Shobhan N. Lamare.
Toniho S Kharsati, General Secretary of the NEHU Students’ Union (NEHUSU), did not shy away from the university’s declining performance during his address. He urged introspection and collective resolve, while simultaneously commending the recent infrastructural advancements achieved under the current leadership.
Vice-Chancellor SM Sungoh acknowledged the challenging period NEHU has navigated. However, she lauded the unwavering dedication of faculty and staff, who, she noted, consistently went above and beyond their call of duty to uphold academic integrity. “We are on our way to reclaiming the glory of NEHU,” she asserted, drawing a vivid metaphor of the institution rising like a phoenix from the ashes.
The anniversary event was graced by WR Kharlukhi, a Member of the Rajya Sabha and a distinguished NEHU alumnus, as the chief guest. Kharlukhi reflected on NEHU’s journey through adversity, sagely observing that “crises are blessings” and reiterating that greatness often emerges from trials. He fondly recalled his own student days at NEHU, emphasising the university’s profound role in shaping not just careers, but also the very character of its students.
A notable achievement highlighted at the celebration was the release of “Five Decades of NEHU: A Glorious Journey and Way Ahead,” a comprehensive chronicle detailing the university’s evolution since its establishment in 1973. Editor Mala Renganathan expressed her gratitude to the editorial board and contributors, revealing that the original manuscript for this monumental work spanned over 2,000 pages.
The newly launched anthem’s lyrics, Lamare explained, draw inspiration from the university’s motto “Rise Up and Build,” weaving in imagery of the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, including its rivers and waterfalls. The composition, he added, is designed to inspire young people to embrace leadership roles in the service of the nation.
Calls for unity in addressing institutional challenges resonated throughout the event from various university representatives. Wandondor R. Synrem, President of the NEHU Non-Teaching Staff Association (NEHUNSA), credited students with being the catalysts for positive change. Lakhon Kma, President of the NEHU Teachers’ Association (NEHUTA), acknowledged nearly a decade of difficulties but expressed palpable optimism about the current leadership’s direction.
The gathering brought together faculty, staff, and students in what organisers described as a powerful demonstration of collective commitment to the university’s future. NEHU, originally established as a premier institution to serve India’s vibrant northeastern region, now faces the dual challenge of re-establishing its national academic reputation while steadfastly maintaining its vital regional significance.
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