Shillong, July 8: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Saturday inaugurated the National Law University (NLU) at the temporary campus at Mayurbhanj Complex, Shillong.
The event was witnessed by Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court Sanjib Banerjee, justices HS Thangkhiew and W Diengdoh, Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma and Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Indrajit Dube.
Conrad stressed the importance of documenting and codifying customary and tribal laws. He expressed his vision for NLU to become a center of excellence for research on customary laws and practices in the entire Northeast region.
The chief minister stressed the government’s dedication to incorporating the aspects of the National Education Policy in all new initiatives.
He hoped that the NLU would foster innovation, research, and critical thinking. He highlighted the university’s unique courses in Business Administration, Policy Research, and Data Sciences combined with law, which would equip students to tackle emerging challenges.
He stressed the significance of addressing climate change and the associated legal frameworks.
The chief minister said NLU’s data science course combined with law is the first of its kind in the country. Such innovative courses aim to prepare the youth with the necessary skills and solutions required in the ever-evolving landscape.
The chief minister noted that an institution’s value is measured by its innovative ideas, whether in production or process. The establishment of NLU in Shillong will contribute to the transformation of legal education and the broader field of education.
The government has allocated Rs 25 crore for infrastructure development at the temporary campus, of which Rs 19 crore has already been utilised.
The chief justice, while speaking at the inauguration of the National Law University (NLU), highlighted the institution’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, as well as its futuristic approach. The chief justice emphasised that NLU’s distinguishing factor would be its focus on studying cultural and tribal laws, with the ultimate goal of codifying and comprehending their beauty and societal significance.
He said NLU aims to be at the forefront of legal education by incorporating emerging fields such as data science and artificial intelligence into its curriculum. The institution’s vision is to embrace a revolutionary and non-conformist approach, igniting a passion for learning and knowledge among its students.
Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma stressed the transformative role that the National Law University (NLU) will play in shaping the future of the state.
He highlighted that NLU will provide students with the necessary tools and knowledge to develop ideas that contribute to the overall welfare of the state.
The minister also acknowledged the vital role that the court system plays in delivering justice to the people. In this context, NLU will prepare future lawyers who will act as advocates for the cause of the people, ensuring that justice is served and their rights are protected.
“By imparting quality legal education and fostering a deep understanding of the law, NLU will empower students to become catalysts for positive change in society”, he said.
