The North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) marked its 52nd anniversary on May 26 with renewed enthusiasm and a strong commitment to academic revival. The highlight of the celebration was the official launch of the university anthem, aimed at building unity and pride among students and staff.
Held at the university’s main campus in Shillong, the event brought together administrators, faculty, students, alumni, and regional dignitaries.
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Anthem Launch Marks a New Chapter
A key moment of the day was the unveiling of NEHU’s first-ever university anthem. This anthem, composed by local artists and endorsed by university leadership, reflects the vision, legacy, and spirit of the institution.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla emphasized the importance of such cultural elements in building identity. “An anthem is more than just music—it’s a symbol of our collective values,” he noted during the launch ceremony.
The performance by the university choir earned loud applause and created an emotional connection among attendees, especially the alumni who returned for the celebration.
Renewed Commitment to Academic Revival
This year’s NEHU 52nd Anniversary is not just a milestone—it is a turning point. The leadership has pledged to focus on academic rejuvenation, better governance, and stronger research output.
Vice-Chancellor Shukla acknowledged past challenges but outlined several forward-looking initiatives:
- Recruitment of new faculty
- Modernization of labs and libraries
- Revamping academic curricula to match industry trends
- Fostering international collaborations and research
He also highlighted the government’s growing support for regional universities and stressed the need for NEHU to rise as a knowledge hub in the Northeast.
Highlighting the University’s Legacy
Established in 1973, NEHU has grown into one of the most prominent central universities in India’s Northeast. It serves as a key center of education and research for students from Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and other parts of the region.
During the celebration, speakers revisited NEHU’s history and its role in shaping the intellectual fabric of the Northeast. The university has produced thousands of graduates who now serve across public, private, and international sectors.
This reflection on its past made the event both nostalgic and motivating.
Students and Faculty Play a Central Role
The NEHU 52nd Anniversary celebration saw strong participation from the student body. Several student groups presented cultural performances representing the diverse ethnic heritage of the region.
In addition, faculty members led academic sessions, including talks on research innovation, digital education, and student empowerment. The collaborative tone of the event emphasized that revival can only happen with joint efforts from all stakeholders.
One student, Priya Marak from the English Department, said, “Today, we don’t just celebrate a date—we celebrate a vision for the future. It feels good to be part of this renewed energy.”
Government and Alumni Support
Senior officials from the Ministry of Education and the Meghalaya State Government attended the event and promised extended support. They appreciated NEHU’s efforts in improving institutional governance and its plans for the coming decade.
Distinguished alumni also shared insights about how the university shaped their careers. Several expressed willingness to contribute through mentorship, funding, and collaborative programs.
This growing network of support could play a vital role in driving the change NEHU seeks to implement.
Digital Push and Infrastructure Plans
One of the key announcements during the event was a digital transformation initiative. NEHU plans to upgrade its IT infrastructure to support hybrid learning, streamline administrative processes, and make campus life more efficient.
Other plans include:
- Smart classrooms across departments
- High-speed internet and e-library access
- More research fellowships and startup incubation programs
These steps will modernize the academic experience while making the university more competitive nationally and globally.
Looking Forward: A New Era for NEHU
The celebration concluded with the release of a commemorative brochure and a symbolic tree-planting drive by faculty and students. This gesture underscored NEHU’s commitment to sustainability and long-term growth.
In his closing remarks, the Vice-Chancellor called upon everyone to treat the NEHU 52nd Anniversary as a “fresh beginning, not just a festivity.” He encouraged students to aim higher, faculty to innovate more, and alumni to stay connected.
The anthem launch, academic renewal pledge, and community spirit have given NEHU a fresh wind in its sails. The event reaffirmed that the university is determined to reclaim its stature and meet the challenges of a rapidly changing academic landscape.
