Education Minister Rymbui Urges Youths to Balance Ambition and Patience

Shillong, India Jul 26, 2026 ALN: Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui on Saturday urged students to balance ambition with patience, cautioning that while today’s youth are more daring and willing to explore new opportunities than ever before, impatience and confusion in choosing the right path could become a challenge not only for individuals but for society as a whole.

Addressing the gathering at the 91st Foundation Day celebration of Lady Keane College, Rymbui emphasized the importance of finding equilibrium between the drive for success and the necessity of patience in achieving long-term goals. He stated that the rapid pace of technological and educational transformation has created immense opportunities, but has also left many young people uncertain about their future. This uncertainty can lead to anxiety and a sense of being overwhelmed, particularly as they navigate the complexities of modern education and employment landscapes.

“Today’s youth are ambitious, daring and willing to venture into new fields, but at the same time they are very impatient. Sometimes they try to do everything at once and eventually do not know what they really want to pursue,” he said, highlighting a common dilemma faced by many young individuals today. The pressure to succeed quickly can often lead to burnout and disillusionment, which can hinder rather than help their progress.

Highlighting the changing nature of education, the minister said the focus has shifted from rote learning to critical thinking and problem-solving. This shift is reflective of broader global trends in education, where creativity and analytical skills are increasingly prioritized over memorization. He noted that technological advancements have transformed not only the way students learn but also how information is consumed and communicated. As a result, students are now expected to engage with content in a more interactive and meaningful way, utilizing various digital tools and platforms.

“Whether a message is delivered through a long lecture or a one-minute video, what matters is that the message should be clear and meaningful,” he said, while encouraging students to use digital platforms and available educational resources constructively. This call to action reflects the need for students to become discerning consumers of information, capable of distinguishing between valuable content and distractions in an age where information overload is commonplace.

Rymbui observed that governments have invested significantly in education and youth development, but stressed that policymaking must go beyond infrastructure and programmes to address the aspirations and restless minds of young people. He emphasized that education policy should be responsive and inclusive, taking into account the diverse needs and ambitions of the youth. “We need the patience of our youth, not impatience. The foundation has been laid, the platform has been created, and now we must move forward together. Policymaking today is no longer top-down; we listen to the ideas of the youth and develop policies through collaboration,” he said, underscoring a more participatory approach to governance.

The Education Minister lauded Lady Keane College for its remarkable 91-year legacy, saying the institution has made invaluable contributions to higher education in the Northeast. Established in 1933, Lady Keane College has played a pivotal role in empowering women through education, becoming a symbol of progress and advancement in a region where access to education has historically been limited for women.

He commended the dedication of its faculty, recognized long-serving teachers, applauded the college’s growing research culture, and congratulated meritorious students and achievers honored during the program. Such recognition not only motivates educators and students alike but also reinforces the importance of academic excellence and commitment to continuous learning in an evolving educational landscape.

The Director of Higher & Technical Education, H.D.B. Sangma, described Lady Keane College as a beacon of women’s education and empowerment whose legacy continues to inspire generations. She remarked that investing in women’s education remains one of the most powerful investments any society can make. “Educate a woman, and you educate a generation,” she stated, emphasizing the ripple effect that women’s education can have on families and communities.

Sangma elaborated on the transformative potential of education, particularly in the context of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, biotechnology, and innovation. She stressed that adaptability and continuous learning are essential qualities for students to thrive in an increasingly complex world. “The greatest strength of a student is not merely the knowledge acquired within the classroom, but the ability to learn continuously, adapt confidently, think critically, solve problems creatively and work collaboratively,” she said, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to education that prepares students for real-world challenges.

She also discussed the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes multidisciplinary education, research, innovation, flexibility, and skill development, enabling holistic growth of students. The NEP aims to reform the educational landscape in India by making it more inclusive and responsive to the needs of the 21st century. She was confident that Lady Keane College was well positioned to lead this transformative journey, given its commitment to educational excellence and innovation.

The celebration commenced with the hoisting of the college flag and the singing of the College Anthem, followed by a welcome address by Principal-in-Charge A.M. Shangpliang. A video presentation showcasing the institution’s milestones over the past 91 years highlighted the college’s contributions to women’s education and academic excellence, illustrating the profound impact that the college has had on the lives of its students and the community.

The program also featured the felicitation of faculty members for completing 25 years of dedicated service, recognition of research publications, awards for meritorious Higher Secondary students, honors for the Students’ Cell, PWD Cell, and Fashion Design Certificate Course, as well as awards for achievements in co-curricular and extracurricular activities. Members of the Students’ Council were felicitated for their contributions, too, showcasing the importance of student leadership and engagement in the college community.

The College magazine, the Keanean Journal of Arts, and the History Department’s annual magazine were released as part of the celebrations, providing a platform for students to showcase their creativity and academic work. These publications serve not only as a record of the college’s achievements but also as a means for students to express their voices and perspectives.

The event concluded with cultural performances by Higher Secondary students and the inauguration of SEED’s sanitary incinerator and vending machine by the guest of honor, underscoring the institution’s commitment to student welfare and sustainable campus initiatives. This initiative reflects a growing awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability and health, aligning with broader global efforts to promote responsible practices within educational institutions.