- 13 August, 2025
Shillong, August 13, 2025 — The Bellefonte Evening College, affiliated to the North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) and the All India Council for Technical Education, was officially inaugurated on August 12 at Lumshyiap, Shillong. Managed by the Salesian Sisters of Shillong Province, the institution seeks to provide higher education opportunities for individuals engaged in livelihood activities during the day.
The inauguration ceremony featured Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh DD of Shillong, as the chief guest, along with Sr. Chantal Mukase, general visiting councillor of the Salesian Sisters, and Prof. Sumarbin Umdor, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of NEHU, as guests of honour.
Dr. Sr. Helen Puwein, Principal of the college, set the tone for the occasion by welcoming the dignitaries, faculty, staff, students, benefactors, friends, and well-wishers. Presenting a detailed profile, Sr. Rosa Pyngrope, the provincial, outlined the college’s mission, vision, and objectives.
In his address, Archbishop Lyngdoh praised the college’s management for its passion-driven approach to education, describing it as “a ray of light in the dark” for those seeking evening learning. He encouraged the Salesian Sisters to continue walking forward together in faith and unity, urged students to take ownership of their future, and emphasised the vital role of parental support in their success.
Guest of honour Sr. Chantal Mukase assured the gathering that the Salesian Sisters would embody the words of Don Bosco: “For you I live, for you I work, for you I study.” Prof. Sumarbin lauded the Sisters’ determination in realising the new college and, drawing from a short story, reminded young people that their life is in their own hands, urging them to make the most of the opportunities provided.
The event featured cultural performances, including the song Be a Light by pioneering students and faculty, a prayer dance by Sacred Heart Girls’ Higher Secondary School, Mawlai, the song Dare to Dream by Auxilium Girls’ Higher Secondary School, Nongthymmai, and an action song by the Novices of Bellefonte Shillong. The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from faculty member Mr. Pynshngainlang Nongbri.
The Holy Eucharist, celebrated to seek God’s blessings on the new venture, was presided over by Archbishop Lyngdoh and concelebrated by other priests.
The establishment of the Bellefonte Evening College marks a significant milestone in the region’s educational landscape, reflecting the Salesian Sisters’ commitment to the holistic and integral development of individuals. The college offers a four-year undergraduate programme in six major subjects—English, Education, Economics, Political Science, Sociology, and Computer Applications—along with multidisciplinary, ability enhancement, skill enhancement, and value-added courses.
By Sr. Euginia Laloo FMA
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