Meghalaya Chief Minister Distributes Learning Tablets in West Garo Hills

Shillong, Jan 14 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, officially distributed M-Tab learning tablets to students in West Garo Hills during an event in Tura. This initiative is part of the Student Digital Learning Scheme launched by the CM, aimed at enhancing e-education in the region. The M-Tab is equipped with extensive materials for Higher Secondary examinations across all streams, including mock question papers, previous exam questions, and solved papers for various competitive tests. It also features high-quality audio-video content, animations, and 3D graphics.

During his speech at the district auditorium, Sangma emphasized, "This handheld device is more than just a gadget; it serves as a tool to empower our youth. Our goal is to provide our young generation with access to quality learning and equip them to tackle diverse examinations effectively."

He added, "This initiative is evidence of our commitment and trust in you," highlighting the transformative impact of technology in contemporary life.

According to the Chief Minister, the government is dedicated to leveraging technology to enhance the learning experience, making it more impactful, meaningful, and enjoyable.

“Digital learning through multimedia makes the learning process more accessible and straightforward,” he stated. He also remarked that increased use of technology at the grassroots level, such as smart classrooms and digital learning, would significantly benefit students. However, he cautioned that technology serves merely as an enabler for easier learning.

Additionally, Sangma pointed out the government's focus on developing IT sectors within the state, including plans for IT parks in Shillong and Tura and the installation of optical fiber networks.

“We anticipate completing this project within two years, aiming for every school to have access to optical fibers. Although progress may take time, we have initiated the process,” he conveyed.

He also mentioned that the existing IT park in Shillong is servicing clients from the USA and Europe.

“Our talented youth from Meghalaya are engaged with AI firms, delivering solutions that predict agricultural conditions like crop diseases, rainfall, and water requirements, all from Meghalaya. This is the kind of transformation we are witnessing,” he stated.

Since 2021, approximately 100,000 tablets have been distributed to Class 11 students. In the current academic year of 2023-24, 30,480 students have benefited from this program, as reported by the Directorate of School Education and Literacy. In West Garo Hills, around 3,000 M-Tabs are set to be distributed, with over 400 students from 21 higher secondary schools receiving tablets during the latest distribution event. Additionally, nearly 5,700 teachers from various higher secondary institutions across the state will also receive these tablets to enhance e-learning and assessments.

Speaker Thomas A. Sangma was present at the event.

The Vidya Samiksha Kendra, a learning management application developed by the state’s Department of Information and Technology, is also being utilized to monitor learning outcomes and assist teachers in assessing student performance.