Shillong, March 26: Prof. Sherwin M. Sungoh has informed that she has assumed charge as the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), in response to directives from the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India, and requests from State Government officials.

She formally assumed charge as Pro-VC of NEHU’s Shillong Campus on March 21, 2025.

Prof. Sungoh had initially refrained from assuming office due to the prevailing unrest in the University and in solidarity with students who were on a hunger strike in November 2024. However, in light of the absence of Vice-Chancellor Prof. P.S. Shukla from the headquarters since March 3, 2025, the functioning of the University has been affected, particularly in academic, financial, and administrative matters. While routine operations have continued under the effective management of the Statutory Officers, many crucial decisions remained pending.

Recognizing the need to restore stability and ensure that students’ academic futures are not compromised, the Ministry of Education contacted Prof. Sungoh on March 20 and 21, 2025, urging her to assume charge in the interest of the University. After discussions with State Government officials, who also emphasized the importance of her leadership at this critical juncture, Prof. Sungoh decided to take charge as Pro Vice-Chancellor and has formally informed the Ministry of Education.

In accordance with the provisions of the University Statute (Statute 2A(5)(i)), Prof. Sungoh stated that in the absence of the Vice-Chancellor from the headquarters in Shillong, she will discharge the duties of the office of the Vice-Chancellor until Prof. Shukla resumes his responsibilities. As the senior most Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University, she is fully empowered to function as the Vice-Chancellor under these circumstances.

Prof. Sungoh also expressed her gratitude to the Ministry of Education, the Government of Meghalaya, and the Member of Parliament in Lok Sabha from Meghalaya for their concern regarding the ongoing crisis at NEHU. She also acknowledged the collective efforts of senior faculty and officials, including Prof. Saha (senior-most Professor), Prof. S. Umdor (In-Charge Controller of Examinations and Finance Officer), and B. Rynjah (In-Charge Registrar), who have worked tirelessly to ensure the continuity of university operations over the past five months.

Prof. Sungoh has also called upon all stakeholders of NEHU to come together and extend their cooperation in stabilizing the University. She reaffirmed her commitment to prioritizing the welfare of students and the overall well-being of the institution during this challenging period.