Sankardev College, Shillong

Address:

Sankardev College
Nongthymmai,
Shillong – 793014,
Meghalaya, India.

Overview of Sankardev College, Shillong

Sankardev College is one of the most well-regarded institutions of higher learning in Shillong, Meghalaya. Established in 1994, it has quickly become a prominent educational institution in the region, offering undergraduate programs in Arts, Science, and Commerce. The college is affiliated with North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, and is known for its strong academic focus, vibrant campus life, and commitment to the overall development of its students.

Named after the 15th-century saint and scholar, Srimanta Sankardev, the college upholds the values of learning, culture, and social service that he propagated. Sankardev College aims to provide a quality education while fostering a sense of community and social responsibility among its students. The college serves as a hub of learning for students from Shillong and surrounding areas, offering an inclusive, student-friendly environment.

History and Establishment

Sankardev College was founded with the vision of providing affordable and quality education to the students of Shillong and its neighboring areas. The college was established by a group of educationalists with the intention of making higher education more accessible, particularly to the underprivileged sections of society.

The name “Sankardev” was chosen to honor Srimanta Sankardev, an influential saint-scholar, social reformer, and cultural icon from Assam. Sankardev was known for his contributions to literature, music, and culture, which aimed at promoting social harmony and spirituality. The college’s philosophy draws from his values of unity, knowledge, and service to society.

Since its inception, Sankardev College has strived to provide quality education while also focusing on extracurricular activities that nurture creativity, leadership, and social awareness. The college has seen steady growth, and today it is considered one of the key educational institutions in Shillong, especially for those pursuing undergraduate education.

Campus and Infrastructure

Sankardev College is located in Nongthymmai, a serene and peaceful locality in Shillong, offering an ideal environment for study. The campus is spread over several acres, providing ample space for various academic and extracurricular activities. The picturesque surroundings, coupled with the calm ambiance of the region, offer a conducive environment for learning and personal growth.

The college is equipped with modern infrastructure to support both academics and extracurricular activities. It has well-maintained classrooms, laboratories, and a library. The library is stocked with a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources to support students in their academic pursuits. The college has separate labs for different scientific disciplines, including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, where students can perform practical experiments to complement their theoretical knowledge.

Additionally, the college offers computer facilities and internet access to students, ensuring they have access to the latest technology and resources. The campus also has a student canteen, providing affordable meals, and a health center for students’ medical needs. The college ensures the safety and comfort of its students by providing hostel facilities, particularly for outstation students.

Academic Programs

Sankardev College offers a variety of undergraduate courses in the fields of Arts, Science, and Commerce. The courses are designed to provide students with a solid academic foundation, while also encouraging them to explore their intellectual interests.

Undergraduate Courses

1. Bachelor of Arts (BA)
   The college offers the BA program in a variety of disciplines, including English, Political Science, History, Economics, Sociology, and Education. The BA program at Sankardev College is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the humanities and social sciences. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of socio-political issues.
2. Bachelor of Science (BSc)
   Sankardev College offers a BSc program with specializations in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Zoology, Botany, and Environmental Science. The BSc curriculum combines theory with practical learning, preparing students for careers in science, research, and technology. The college emphasizes the development of analytical and problem-solving skills, with practical laboratory sessions complementing classroom learning.
3. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
   The BCom program at Sankardev College offers students a solid understanding of business, finance, economics, and management. It is designed to equip students with the skills required for a career in the corporate world, banking, or entrepreneurship. The BCom course focuses on subjects like accounting, business law, economics, and financial management, which are essential for a successful career in commerce.

Additional Programs and Focus Areas

While the college mainly offers undergraduate courses, it also provides certificate courses and programs that are designed to enhance students’ skills and employability. These courses are focused on specific areas such as computer applications, spoken English, and environmental studies.

Faculty and Teaching Methodology

The faculty at Sankardev College comprises highly qualified and experienced individuals who are dedicated to the academic and personal development of students. Many of the faculty members hold advanced degrees in their respective fields, and several are actively engaged in research activities.

The teaching methodology at Sankardev College is student-centric, with a focus on interactive and participatory learning. Faculty members use a mix of traditional lectures, group discussions, seminars, and multimedia tools to facilitate effective learning. The college encourages students to engage actively in the learning process, fostering a culture of inquiry and critical thinking.

In addition to regular lectures, the college also organizes workshops, seminars, and guest lectures by experts in various fields. These events help expose students to new ideas and perspectives and encourage them to stay updated on current developments in their fields of study.

Research and Innovation

Sankardev College encourages research activities and has a growing research culture. Faculty members are involved in various research projects in their respective fields, and the college supports students who wish to engage in research. The college’s emphasis on research is evident through its efforts to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students, helping them develop the ability to address real-world challenges.

The college organizes academic seminars and conferences, providing students with opportunities to present their research and engage with scholars and experts in their fields. These platforms allow students to learn the importance of research in contributing to societal development and innovation.

Cultural and Extracurricular Activities

Sankardev College recognizes the importance of extracurricular activities in the holistic development of students. In addition to academics, the college places a strong emphasis on cultural, sports, and leadership activities. Students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of clubs and societies, such as the Literary Club, Music Club, Debate Club, and Sports Club.

The college organizes cultural events, such as annual fests and inter-college competitions, where students can showcase their talents in music, dance, drama, and literature. These events foster a sense of creativity and teamwork among students and provide a platform for them to express themselves. The college also celebrates national festivals, such as Independence Day and Republic Day, fostering a sense of patriotism and unity.

Sports also play a significant role at Sankardev College, with the college organizing inter-college and intra-college sports events. The college provides facilities for a variety of sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, and athletics. These activities help students develop teamwork, leadership, and discipline, all of which are valuable skills for personal and professional growth.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

Sankardev College encourages students to actively participate in community service and social responsibility initiatives. The college believes in the importance of giving back to society and developing a sense of social awareness among students.

The college organizes various outreach programs, such as cleanliness drives, blood donation camps, and health awareness campaigns. These activities not only contribute to the community but also help students develop empathy, leadership skills, and a sense of responsibility. The college’s involvement in social welfare activities reflects its commitment to producing well-rounded individuals who are aware of the challenges faced by society.

Admission Process

The admission process at Sankardev College is based on merit. Students seeking admission to undergraduate courses must have completed their higher secondary education (10+2) from a recognized board, and their eligibility is determined based on the marks obtained in their qualifying examinations. For some programs, the college may conduct entrance exams or interviews.

Sankardev College follows the admission guidelines set by North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), and reservations are provided for students from various categories in accordance with government norms. Scholarships and financial assistance are also available to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Conclusion

Sankardev College, Shillong, stands as an institution committed to academic excellence, student development, and social responsibility. With its rich history, modern infrastructure, dedicated faculty, and emphasis on holistic development, the college continues to play a significant role in shaping the future of students in the North-Eastern region.

Through its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and focus on community engagement, Sankardev College prepares students not only for professional success but also for becoming responsible citizens who contribute to the development of society. The college’s commitment to its founding values and its focus on empowering students make it an ideal choice for students in Shillong and beyond.