By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sept 2: The Convocation Ceremony of St. Anthony’s College unfolded as a vibrant celebration of culture and scholarship, marking not only the remarkable achievement of 145 rank holders and five PhD awardees but also reaffirming the values that define the Anthonian spirit.
The programme opened with a grand convocation march, led by the Chief Guest, faculty heads, rank holders, and doctoral recipients. The procession resonated with the cultural heartbeat of Meghalaya, blending the rhythmic Garo Ongrima beats with the graceful Khasi Shadwait, setting the tone for an event steeped in tradition and pride.
Returning to his alma mater, Cabinet Minister and alumnus of the English Department (Class of 1993), Paul Lyngdoh, served as Chief Guest. In his address, he reflected on cherished memories while urging graduates to embrace humility, empathy, and lifelong curiosity. Quoting Yeats, he reminded them that “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire,” highlighting the need for kindness, active listening, and grounded leadership in today’s complex world.
A defining moment of the ceremony was the introduction of the Goodness Award – Where Values Meet Leadership, instituted by the Department of Value Education. The inaugural honour was bestowed upon Elizabeth Hazel Lyndem, Student Coordinator of the College, for her integrity, grace, and empathetic leadership. Celebrated for fostering inclusivity, collaboration, and responsibility, she was recognised as a role model among peers—an award that underscores the College’s mission to form not only scholars but also compassionate citizens, true to the Don Bosco vision of education as service.
The College also honoured excellence across 23 departments, with 146 students receiving awards for their outstanding performance in NEHU examinations. Departments such as Commerce, Economics, Education, Mass Media, Fishery Science, Chemistry, Geology, and Statistics achieved the highest ranks. Among the distinguished guests were Dr. Sarah Kharbuli, Head of Fishery Sciences, and Dr. Aman War, Headman of Lower Lachumiere.
In addition, four faculty members were recognised for recently earning their PhD degrees, while three others were honoured for completing 25 years of dedicated service to the institution. These milestones highlighted the faculty’s enduring contribution to academic excellence and values-based education.
The prestigious Archbishop Hubert D’Rosario Award, conferred upon the student with the highest marks across NEHU examinations, went to Somiyur Shaiza (Geology), who secured an impressive 94.5 percent. The Valedictorian, Md. Rezaul Islam (Political Science), was celebrated for his academic achievement, leadership, and service to the community.