Meghalaya: Pine Mount School marks 125 years of empowering generations

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: Pine Mount School celebrated its quasquicentennial—125 years of nurturing intellect, character, and courage. The celebration echoed with stories of perseverance and pride, memories and milestones, as the institution marked a journey few others can claim.

At the grand ceremony, Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Prestone Tynsong, stood as Chief Guest—a moment both symbolic and celebratory. “Budget allocation for 2025-26 has been enhanced to Rs 3635.4 crore, the budget allocation in state of Meghalaya is highest allocation being made to education sector,” he said, reaffirming the government’s focus on education as a driver of change. He added, “We are in the hopeful state, if you compare 125 years what a change we have. Over Rs 1000 crore is sanctioned for the establishment of 38 EMRS schools.” Reflecting on the school’s achievements, Tynsong declared, “Pine Mount stand at rank 23rd in the country and it has a brand name and it is the pride of Meghalaya.”

Alongside him, Education Minister Rakkam A. Sangma underscored the state’s commitment to strengthening higher education infrastructure. “For the ongoing projects Rs 1.86 Cr. and additional Rs 4.4 Cr. for upgradation of the school sanctioned under Asian Development Bank,” he announced. He also noted the establishment of 21 People’s Colleges, calling it a historic investment in accessible, inclusive learning.

Among the many dignitaries present was East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner R.M. Kurbah—an alumna of Pine Mount herself. Her return to the school in an official capacity was more than ceremonial; it was a full-circle moment that spoke volumes of the school’s enduring impact. Her journey from these very classrooms to the corridors of administration exemplifies how Pine Mount has shaped not only students, but leaders.

Today, the school stands tall with Kindergarten to Class XII, affiliated to the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE). Yet beyond its academic accomplishments, Pine Mount remains what it always has been: a sanctuary of dreams, a cradle of hope, and a forge for future makers. What began as a haven for European and Eurasian children—built from the compassion of Anglican chaplains and the resolve of the Church—has grown into a symbol of educational empowerment. Back then, when travel to Calcutta or Darjeeling for education was long, arduous, and costly, Pine Mount became the answer to a need too great to ignore. Its early years were marked by uncertainty, but never a loss of purpose.

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