Meghalaya: USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque Calls On CM Conrad Sangma

SHILLONG: University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque had a meeting with Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma at his residence on Wednesday, which was his first major public outing after his recent release from custody.

The meeting is important since Hoque was arrested by Assam Police in connection with charges of exam malpractice, a controversy that had put him under the scanner of the public.

After the meeting, Hoque called the discussion significant and insightful and mentioned that the Chief Minister had provided him with precious advice. Yet he avoided giving out the details of their discussion, allowing speculations about the nature of their exchange.

After being released from almost a month-long imprisonment, Hoque tried to shift the focus towards USTM's scholarly accomplishments. He highlighted the university's increasing profile in Indian higher education, stating that USTM is among the top 200 universities in India. He credited the institution for this success, citing its commitment to excellence in academics and ongoing work towards keeping up high standards.

Emphasizing USTM's accreditation achievement, Hoque indicated that obtaining an 'A' grade accreditation is a difficult achievement, especially for Northeastern institutions. He reasoned that USTM's success in this area speaks volumes about its adherence to quality education and institutional integrity.

For the future, Hoque spoke of his desire to extend USTM's reach beyond Indian shores. He informed that the long-term vision of the university is in tune with the Central Government's Act East Policy, with a view to enhancing India's relationship with Southeast Asian countries. He sees USTM become a world-ranked institution, with ASEAN students in its fold by the year 2030.

He also added that the Northeast's geographical location near Southeast Asian countries gives it a strategic advantage, making USTM an academic bridge between India and its eastern neighbors.

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