TimesView : Shillong Commerce College: A Chronicle of Vision and Triumph

Explore the rich history and contributions of Shillong Commerce College on its founder-principal's 29th memorial day. Learn about the challenges, triumphs, and enduring legacy of this esteemed institution.

Chronicle Tribute: Founder-Principal's 29th Memorial

In the heart of Shillong, where the lush hills cradle the aspirations of young minds, the journey of Shillong Commerce College unfolds—a saga woven with threads of vision, academic

Principal Acharya &

Mrs. Shelley Acharya

brilliance, and unwavering dedication. Founded by the illustrious S. K. Acharya, this institution has etched its name in the educational landscape of Meghalaya.

A Visionary's Genesis: Shillong Commerce College

The origins of Shillong Commerce College can be traced to its nascent days in Islamia School, G.S. Road, where the foundations of academic excellence were laid. The brainchild of S. K. Acharya, the college emerged as a testament to his foresight and commitment to quality education.

Embracing the Legacy: S. K. Acharya's Enduring Impact
The enduring legacy of Shillong Commerce College reflects not just the academic prowess of S. K. Acharya but also the indomitable spirit that fueled its journey. His vision, coupled with the support of illustrious figures, such as the Chief Ministers of undivided Assam, B. P. Chaliha and Bishnu Ram Medhi, Finance Minister of Meghalaya state, B.B. Lyngdoh, and luminaries like Dr. Varrier Elwin, Dr. H. J. Taylor, and Dr. D. S. Kothari, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, played pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of this esteemed institution that carved a path for future generations to tread.

During the era of B. P. Chaliha's Chief Ministership in Undivided Assam, Shillong Commerce

Frontal View of Shillong
Commerce College

College experienced favorable winds. The Government of Assam, under Chaliha's patronage, granted an acre of land, and building grants amounting to nearly Rs 1.5 lakhs were received. A portion of the college building materialized with these funds, marking a phase of growth.

Academic Triumphs: Shillong Commerce College's Legacy
Under Principal Acharya's visionary leadership, Shillong Commerce College emerged as a beacon of academic brilliance. Noteworthy accomplishments include a girl student from PU Commerce securing the 1st position in the NEHU exam—a testament to the college's commitment to nurturing exceptional talent.

Despite facing challenges like 'meagre' enrolment and 'inadequate' staff, the college, under Principal Acharya's leadership, achieved remarkable feats, showcasing its commitment to academic excellence and societal relevance:

Symposia at the college with
Principal S. K. Acharya
Intellectual Discourse: The college successfully organised several seminars and symposia within a decade, addressing pressing economic issues at the state and national levels. This accomplishment set the institution apart, as no other college in the region could boast of similar academic engagements.

The college achieved notable academic success. In at least one year, all students appearing for the B. Com examination emerged successful. Moreover, in the 1975 P.U. Commerce examination of NEHU, a student from this college secured the top position—an achievement acknowledged earlier. Principal Acharya's positive relations with Dr. D. S. Kothari, the former Chairman of the University Grants Commission, facilitated the acquisition of UGC grants. The college's dedication to holistic education inspired generations of students to excel academically.

40 Courses, One Vision: The Unparalleled Academic Spectrum
Shillong Commerce College assumed a pivotal role in the socio-economic transformation of

College staff including
the founder principal

North-Eastern India, particularly in the predominantly monocultural tribal economy. The B Com stage of the commerce faculty encompassed over 40 specialised commerce courses, a notable contrast to general colleges that could barely offer teaching facilities for 13 or 14 courses at this stage. This curriculum gap meant students from Meghalaya seeking higher education in Banking, Insurance, Labour Economics, Management, Industrial Management, and similar fields had to travel considerable distances.

Advocate for Change: Principal Acharya's Contributions Beyond Borders

Students in the 1970s during
a college function

Principal Acharya's impact extended far beyond the confines of Shillong Commerce College. He emerged as a pioneering voice, advocating for the establishment of a specialized university for tribal communities in Shillong. This advocacy took the form of a comprehensive six-part article published in the 'Democratic Review' in January-February 1954. In the subsequent years, Principal Acharya continued to champion this cause through numerous op-eds in prominent publications such as The Shillong Times, Frontier Times, and Shillong Observer.

His persistent efforts bore fruit when the public rallied behind the demand in the early sixties,

Principal Acharya with staff
during the construction in
the 1970s

leading to the establishment of the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in 1973. For Principal Acharya, NEHU wasn't just an academic institution; it was a realisation of a long-cherished dream, a source of legitimate pride that reflected his unwavering commitment to education and the empowerment of tribal communities.

Dedication Beyond Duty: Mrs. Acharya's Indelible Mark
Behind every great leader stands a pillar of strength. Mrs. Acharya, a life member, made invaluable contributions to the college's ethos, epitomizing the dedication and support that defined the Acharya family's legacy.

Trials and Triumphs: The Shadow of Adversity

Principal Acharya at an
educational conclave

In the midst of its achievements, Shillong Commerce College faced formidable challenges from influential figures within the corridors of power, including P. R. Kyndiah, A. Warjri, and R. N. Dutta. Their interventions, marked by adversity, presented a tumultuous chapter that not only posed significant challenges but also endangered the very essence of the institution. The college's unwavering resilience in the face of these trials stands as a testament to its steadfast commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.

A Solemn Pilgrimage: Reflecting on a Personal Journey
During my visit to Shillong Commerce College in August 2022, I was both proud and

Current Principal Dr Sen
with faculty

nostalgic. The warmth extended by the current principal, Dr. Sabita Sen, and her acknowledgment of my father, the founder principal, was heartening. The college, born out of my father's vision in 1964, has weathered adversities, but its spirit remains.

The campus has expanded, boasting new buildings, a library, a computer room, and a basketball court. Dr. Sen expressed a desire for a portrait or bust of my father, praising his annual recognition during college functions. However, a discrepancy caught my attention - the college's logo incorrectly states its establishment year as 1967.

Dr. Sen & Commerce HoD
Upadhya with library staff

Despite the infrastructure and steady funds, Shillong Commerce College seems to have deviated from its original course. The specialised subjects envisioned by the founder principal are missing. The computer department, while robust, hasn't explored potential collaborations or symposia on contemporary economic issues. My father's dream project, the Institute of Cost and Works Accounts, appears to be in limbo.

Pioneering a venture for societal benefit and earning a comfortable salary are different

Part of one of the
college buildings

pursuits. My father, Professor Acharya, turned down an offer to head a college in Pretoria, South Africa, choosing instead to establish his dream college. His sacrifices, battling odds and facing flak from authorities, echo in the paradox of a college that bears his legacy but may need to rediscover its original academic spirit.

Commemorating the Legacy: Moving Forward with Inspiration
As we commemorate S. K. Acharya's legacy, we recognise that Shillong Commerce College is

Education minister speaking at
Shillong Commerce College
function in the 1970s

not just an institution but a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and community. The echoes of its triumphs continue to inspire generations, instilling a sense of purpose and commitment to education.

A Final Note: Remembering S. K. Acharya on His 29th Memorial Day
As we wrap up this exploration of Shillong Commerce College's history, it's meaningful to note that today, the 17th November, 2023 commemorates the 29th anniversary of the visionary founder-Principal's passing. Reflecting on his impactful contributions, let us find inspiration in his dedication to education and endeavor to uphold the flame of knowledge.

It may by mentioned here that more than fifty years ago, it was the insightful intellect of the late Salil Krishna Acharya that conceived and thoroughly researched the idea of connecting the Brahmaputra with the Ganges, which has now transformed into a tangible reality.

Exploring the untold vision of river connectivity – read more in my blog post:https://timesview.blogspot.com/2023/11/unveiling-unsung-visionary-s-k-acharya.html

May Shillong Commerce College continue to shine as a beacon of academic excellence, honouring the legacy of its visionary founder-Principal.

Scroll down to immerse yourself in the moments that bring this remarkable narrative to life.