Shillong, June 23: The Mothers’ Union, Tura, has appreciated the successful launch of Project COME (Community Onward Movement for Education), a transformative initiative aimed at uplifting rural education through a sustainable, community-driven school adoption model.
The launch event, held on June 21 at the Working Women’s Hostel, Mission Compound, Tura, brought together a wide cross-section of stakeholders committed to the betterment of education in Meghalaya. The programme began with invocation prayer by Fr. Janarius, Principal of Don Bosco College,
whose reflections set the tone for the day. His closing remarks further emphasized the
importance of skill development and value-based education, praising the Union for
making these the heart of the initiative.
The President of the Mothers’ Union Sabina K Sangma described the vision and mission of Project COME as a
response to the visible challenges affecting rural schools. She emphasized that the
project is not merely about adopting schools in name, but about accompanying them in
their journey toward holistic development — in infrastructure, in learning outcomes,
and in the nurturing of moral character.
A well-researched presentation followed, outlining the project’s core goals,
implementation strategies, and long-term impact. The audience was introduced to the
key components of the model, including community engagement, school-level capacity
building, integration of life skills, and the strengthening of academic foundations. The
presentation was well-received and stimulated thoughtful discussion throughout the event
Several dignitaries and education leaders took the floor to share their support.
Tyrone D Brass, Headmaster and owner of Learning Sanctuary, applauded the Mothers’
Union for taking the bold step of sharing responsibility with the government and
emphasized the necessity of civic participation in improving educational ecosystems.
The Vice Chancellor of Captain Williamson State University, Dr Vasanti Vijayakumar expressed her enthusiastic
support, offering collaboration through university-led events and training
opportunities. She highlighted that educational institutions must be partners in uplifting marginalized schools and pledged institutional backing whenever required.
Former Education Commissioner, Lutherine R. Sangma, offered deep insights
into the challenges faced by government schools based on her professional experience,
calling Project COME a timely and much-needed intervention.
Singje Ch Marak, Coordinator of the State’s Early Childhood Care and Education program, commended the Union’s resolve and offered her assistance to the project’s early education goals. A representative from DIET also announced upcoming training programmes for teachers that would complement the project’s aims.
Concerns raised by some teachers regarding school management under the
Union’s involvement were addressed by the Secretary of the Union, who
clarified that the project is designed to work alongside — not above — existing systems,
empowering educators through support and collaboration.
