NONGPOH:
The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) celebrated the success of its NET/GATE/JRF qualified students of batch 2021-2022 on December 16 by paying them back their admission and tuition fees.
During a function at the university’s central auditorium, 120 students were rewarded for their hard work under the institution’s unique best practice called ‘Pay-Back Policy’. The total amount refunded came to Rs 1.2 crores.
Addressing the gathering, chancellor of USTM, Mahbubul Hoque, said that the main objective of the award is to create competitiveness and motivation among the students. Hoque further urged other institutions to adopt such policies to encourage students to develop a competitive culture and to give maximum benefit to the Northeastern students.
“The university is committed to its assurance that no brilliant student should be deprived of pursuing higher education only because of their financial incapability,” he added.
The programme was graced by Prof Ganga Prasad Prasain, vice chancellor Tripura University, Prof (Dr) VK Ahuja, vice chancellor National Law University and Judicial Academy, and other dignitaries, students, guardians and parents.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof (Dr) VK Ahuja said, “USTM may become a role model for all other universities of the country, and they may also think along the same line and come out with some pay back policy. This pay back policy is a reward not only for the students but also for their parents and teachers, and most importantly, it is contributing to the happiness index of the students, teachers and administrative staff. I am very happy for the magnanimity which is being shown by USTM and its chancellor.”
He said that paying back the money means money is actually being invested in the state and its education system. He encouraged the students with his inspirational words and handed the rewards to the performing students.
Prof Ganga Prasad Prasain, who also addressed the gathering of more than 2000 students, said, “I congratulate all the successful students to whom this university has refunded the money. I am glad to know that USTM is now an ‘A’ grade university by NAAC which is quite encouraging. USTM’s mission to become a world-class university by 2030 is appreciable.”
Delivering the vote of thanks, Prof GD Sharma, vice chancellor USTM, said that to encourage the students to qualify NET, GATE, SLET, IAS, or any other top-level competitive examinations conducted by state and central government, USTM has introduced the Pay Back Policy wherein students of the University who qualify these prestigious examinations get back their fees.
Special coaching and guidance facilities are also provided to aspirants of various competitions, and as per the policy, students qualifying NET/SLET will get back their fees from the first to the last semester, including admission fees.