SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government on Wednesday launched the CM-IMPACT Read & Rise Meghalaya programme, setting a three-month target to ensure every child above the age of seven can read.
Launched in Shillong, the initiative is part of the government’s CM-IMPACT programme and aims to address foundational learning gaps among schoolchildren, particularly those in rural and remote areas with limited access to learning resources.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said education remained a priority for the government and described Read & Rise as an ambitious initiative. He stressed the need for proper implementation and regular monitoring, with changes wherever required.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui attended the launch, while Education Department Commissioner and Secretary Vijay Kumar Mantri said the programme set a measurable target beyond the foundational learning focus of the National Education Policy.
“If every child can read, that is the foundation of entire quality of education,” Mantri said.
The programme builds on earlier initiatives, including SSLC student guidebooks, the Classroom Readiness Programme and the Meghalaya Learning Enhancement Programme.
The government also released a Teacher Training Guide for Universal Reading Readiness Across Meghalaya. Published by GREENAMMO and sponsored by the Education Department, the guide will provide teachers with structured support to implement the reading programme.
The government expects improved foundational literacy to contribute to better academic performance, including higher pass percentages in board examinations.
