Shillong, March 26: NEHU Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Sherwin M. Sungoh,who assumed office on March 21, will discharge the duties of NEHU VC Prof PS Shukla as he is not able to function from Shillong.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Sungoh has called upon all stakeholders of NEHU to come together and extend their cooperation in stabilising the University. She reaffirmed her commitment to prioritising the welfare of students and the overall well being of the institution during this challenging period.
Referring to the provisions of the University Statute (Statute 2A(5)(i)), Sungoh said in the absence of the Vice Chancellor from the headquarters, she will discharge the duties of the office of the Vice Chancellor until Shukla resumes his responsibilities. As the senior most Pro Vice Chancellor of the University, she is empowered to function as the Vice Chancellor under these circumstances.
Though Sungoh was appointed as Pro Vice Chancellor in November last year, she took charge in response to the directives from the Union Ministry of Education (MOE) and requests from state government officials.
Sungoh had initially refrained from assuming office due to the prevailing unrest in the University and in solidarity with the students who were on a hunger strike. However, in light of the absence of Vice Chancellor Shukla from the headquarters since March 3, 2025, the functioning of the University has been affected, particularly in academic, financial, and administrative matters. While routine operations have continued under the effective management of the statutory officers, many crucial decisions are pending.
Recognising the need to restore stability and ensure that students’ academic futures are not compromised, the MoE contacted Prof. Sungoh on March 20 and 21, 2025, urging to assume charge in the interest of the University. After discussions with State Government officials, who also emphasized the importance of her leadership at this critical juncture, Prof. Sungoh decided to take charge as Pro Vice-Chancellor and has formally informed the MoE.
Sungoh expressed her gratitude to the Ministry of Education, the Government of Meghalaya, and the Member of Parliament in Lok Sabha from Meghalaya for their concern regarding the ongoing crisis at NEHU. She also acknowledged the collective efforts of senior faculty and officials, including Prof. Saha (senior-most Professor), Prof. S. Umdor (In-Charge Controller of Examinations and Finance Officer), and B. Rynjah (In-Charge Registrar), who have worked tirelessly to ensure the continuity of University operations over the past five months..
