Sankardev College, Bishnupur, Laban, Shillong:

Introduction:

Sankardev College, located in Bishnupur, Laban, Shillong, is one of the prominent institutions of higher education in the state of Meghalaya. Established in 1981, the college has grown steadily and earned a reputation for academic excellence, offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various disciplines. The institution is named after the great Assamese saint-scholar Srimanta Sankardev, whose teachings of Bhakti and social harmony are a source of inspiration for the college’s ethos.

The college is affiliated with North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), which is the central university for the region, and is recognized for its commitment to the intellectual, cultural, and social development of its students. Sankardev College is dedicated to providing quality education and preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Its academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support systems aim to nurture well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.

Address and Contact Information:

Sankardev College
Bishnupur, Laban,
Shillong, Meghalaya – 793004,
India
Phone: +91-364-2520921
Email: sankardevcollege@gmail.com
Website: www.sankardevcollege.edu.in

Historical Background:

Sankardev College was founded in the early 1980s with the goal of providing higher education opportunities to the youth of Shillong, particularly in the Laban and Bishnupur regions. Before its establishment, there were limited options for students in this area to pursue higher education in arts, science, and commerce. The college was built on the vision of providing quality education, fostering intellectual growth, and promoting social values rooted in the teachings of Srimanta Sankardev.

The college began as an intermediate college offering pre-university courses and quickly expanded to include undergraduate degree programs in various disciplines. Over the years, Sankardev College has grown both in terms of its student intake and academic offerings, becoming an integral part of the educational landscape of Shillong.

Academic Programs:

Sankardev College offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, primarily in the fields of Arts, Science, and Commerce. The courses are structured to provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen disciplines while also fostering skills that are applicable in the modern world.

1. Bachelor of Arts (BA): The Bachelor of Arts program at Sankardev College offers students the opportunity to specialize in a variety of subjects, including:
   • English
   • History
   • Political Science
   • Philosophy
   • Sociology
   • Education

   The BA program is designed to develop critical thinking, writing skills, and an understanding of social, political, and cultural issues. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical learning, with an emphasis on research and intellectual engagement.

2. Bachelor of Science (BSc): The Bachelor of Science program at Sankardev College offers a variety of natural science disciplines, including:
   • Physics
   • Chemistry
   • Mathematics
   • Botany
   • Zoology

   The BSc program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the natural world, combining theoretical knowledge with laboratory-based experiments. Students are encouraged to develop scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills, which are essential for careers in research, technology, and industry.

3. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): The Bachelor of Commerce program at Sankardev College prepares students for careers in business, management, and finance. The curriculum covers key subjects such as:
   • Accounting
   • Business Law
   • Economics
   • Marketing
   • Corporate Finance

   The BCom program emphasizes practical business skills and aims to provide students with the knowledge required for roles in finance, accounting, marketing, and management.

4. Postgraduate Programs (MA and MSc): Sankardev College offers postgraduate degrees in select disciplines, such as:
   • Master of Arts (MA) in English
   • Master of Science (MSc) in Zoology

   These postgraduate programs are designed for students wishing to pursue advanced studies in their field. The college focuses on providing students with both academic knowledge and research experience, with opportunities for students to engage in projects, dissertations, and scholarly activities.

Faculty and Teaching Methodology:

Sankardev College is known for its dedicated and experienced faculty, many of whom have completed advanced degrees and research in their respective fields. The teaching staff is committed to providing quality education and fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity. Faculty members utilize a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, group discussions, and project work, to engage students actively in their learning process.

The college adopts a student-centric approach to teaching, encouraging critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning. While traditional classroom-based teaching is still the core of instruction, the college also integrates modern technologies such as multimedia presentations, e-learning resources, and online discussions to enhance the learning experience.

The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education, encouraging students to engage in both academic and extracurricular activities. This approach helps in developing leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that are vital for success in the real world.

Campus Infrastructure:

Sankardev College’s campus is located in the picturesque Laban area of Shillong, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Khasi Hills. The college provides a conducive environment for both academic pursuits and extracurricular activities.

1. Classrooms and Laboratories:
   The college has well-equipped classrooms, which are designed to facilitate effective teaching and learning. The classrooms are spacious and well-lit, with modern audio-visual aids such as projectors and computers. For science students, the college has dedicated laboratories for subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Zoology, and Botany, which are equipped with the necessary apparatus and tools to conduct practical experiments.
2. Library:
   The college has a well-stocked library that provides students and faculty with access to a wide range of academic resources. The library houses books, journals, magazines, and reference materials across various subjects. In addition to physical books, the college also subscribes to online databases and e-books to ensure that students have access to the most current and relevant research.
3. Sports and Extracurricular Activities:
   Sankardev College believes in the holistic development of its students, and sports and extracurricular activities are an essential part of college life. The college has a sports ground for games such as football, basketball, and volleyball. Students participate in regular sports events and competitions, fostering teamwork, physical fitness, and discipline.

   The college also has several student clubs and societies focused on cultural activities, social welfare, and academic pursuits. These clubs organize events such as music performances, drama, debates, and literary discussions. These activities allow students to explore their creative talents and develop leadership skills.

4. Hostels:
   The college provides hostel facilities for both male and female students, particularly for those who come from distant areas. The hostels are well-maintained, offering basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, study rooms, and recreational areas. The hostel environment is designed to be conducive to academic focus while also providing students with a community where they can engage in social and cultural activities.
5. Cafeteria and Common Areas:
   The college has a cafeteria that serves healthy and affordable meals to students and staff. The cafeteria is a popular spot for students to relax and socialize between classes. Additionally, the college has various common areas where students can engage in group studies, discussions, and recreational activities.

Research and Development:

Sankardev College is committed to promoting research and academic excellence among both its faculty and students. The college encourages students to engage in research projects, particularly in the fields of science and humanities. Many faculty members actively participate in research activities, publishing articles in national and international journals.

The college organizes seminars, workshops, and conferences regularly to foster an environment of intellectual growth and research. These events provide students and faculty with the opportunity to engage with experts in various fields, exchange ideas, and stay updated on the latest academic trends.

Student Support Services:

Sankardev College provides a range of support services to help students succeed academically and personally:

1. Counseling Services:
   The college offers counseling services to students facing academic pressure or personal issues. Trained counselors are available to guide students and provide emotional support.
2. Career Counseling and Placement Cell:
   The college has a placement cell that helps students secure internships and jobs after graduation. The placement cell organizes career counseling sessions, resume writing workshops, and mock interviews to better prepare students for the job market.
3. Scholarships and Financial Aid:
   Sankardev College offers scholarships to deserving students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. These scholarships help ensure that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from receiving an education.

Conclusion:

Sankardev College, Bishnupur, Laban, Shillong, is an institution committed to providing quality higher education while also nurturing the intellectual and personal growth of its students. Through its academic programs, dedicated faculty, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, the college helps shape well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society. The college’s commitment to academic excellence, cultural development, and social responsibility makes it a valuable asset to the community and a key player in the educational landscape of Meghalaya. With its strong foundation and vision for the future, Sankardev College is poised to continue playing a leading role in the academic and cultural development of the region.