Aurora 2024 officially kicked off on October 18th with the vibrant Kick Start Programme at the Red Cross, setting the tone for an exciting week of activities. The following two days featured the Pre-Aurora games, showcasing football and basketball competitions that drew enthusiastic participation. The excitement continued on October 21st, with thrilling semi-finals and finals in basketball, as well as events like the 100m race, relay race, shot put, and the Strongest MLCU competition for females.

As the week progressed, participants engaged in a diverse array of events. On October 22nd, table tennis, two-wheeler balancing, strongest MLCU for males and football finals captivated audiences, while October 23rd saw a mix of eSports, the treasure hunt, and creative contests like poetry and painting. The festivities continued on October 24th with a quiz, singing, extempore, and dance competitions, leading to the grand finale on October 25th, where the titles of Mr. And Ms. Aurora were awarded, alongside the highly anticipated Encore performance. Aurora 2024 was a celebration of talent, teamwork, and creativity, leaving a lasting impression on all involved.

On October 10, 2024, Martin Luther Christian University hosted a special event in observance of World Mental Health Day, held at Herman Hall, Divine Saviour Parish, Nongthymmai. The program, organized by the Department of Psychology & Wellbeing in collaboration with the Department of Education and the Centre for Counseling, centered on the theme “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.” The event aimed to highlight the significance of mental wellbeing in professional settings and provide practical insights on addressing workplace mental health challenges.

The event commenced with a welcome speech by Ms. Aliscacia M Swett, Deputy Registrar of the university, who set the tone for the day by emphasizing the need for creating supportive workspaces. This was followed by a special medley performance by B.Sc. students, adding a vibrant touch to the proceedings. The keynote address was delivered by Olivia A.I. Bang, an advocate along with the colleagues, underscored the crucial need for regular mental health check-ins within the workplace to ensure employee well-being. The program continued with a thought-provoking discussion led by Dr. T K Kharbamon, Vice-Chancellor and Dr. George Kallingal, Clinical Psychologist who provided valuable insights into the interconnection between spirituality, human life cycle functionality as well as their impact on the mental wellbeing in the workplace. The final session, led by Counselor Maryobiang Pyrtuh, focused on addressing workplace stress within the school environment, providing practical strategies for managing and reducing stress in educational settings. Each session concluded with an interactive Q&A session where attendees had the opportunity to address pressing concerns related to mental health in the workplace and explore potential solutions. The day ended on a lighthearted note with a fun dance session, encouraging attendees to unwind and promote happiness.

Overall, the program, with its blend of expert talks, discussions and interactive engagement, offered an empowering platform for learning and reflection. It reinforced Martin Luther Christian University’s commitment to fostering mental well-being in professional environments and promoting a culture of care and support in the workplace.

The formal program for the Mawmluh Cave cleaning drive, chaired by the NSS Programme Officer, highlighted the importance of community collaboration and environmental preservation. With gratitude expressed by village leaders and insights shared on the cave’s geological significance, participants engaged in a productive cleanup, led by expert Milton Marak, to protect this treasured natural site.

UG:  “Odyssey, a multi-day event for Undergraduate freshers, marked the start of their academic journey. The event showcased various student services and academic offerings through interactive booths, fun activities, and group challenges. Freshers were grouped into teams, guided by senior leaders, and participated in events like an open mic, with chances to earn points for their group. Along with activities, students received welcome gifts, fostering a sense of belonging and excitement for the road ahead.” 

The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics organized an agrobiodiversity walk to identify wild edible foods at Mawphlang community forest as part of the experiential learning for the Minor course in Nutrition, Sports, and Fitness. People from the community taught the students about these wild edible foods

Today, the Centre for Career Development and Placement conducted a one-day career awareness program for the students of class 8-12 at Nongkwar Basic School, Shillong.

The Department of Music, Martin Luther Christian University organised a Jazz Workshop on its Umsawli campus on July 19, 2024. This workshop was facilitated by Claude Diallo, a world-renowned jazz pianist from Switzerland, and Merliham Arrangements. Claude Diallo has won the Grammy Ballot twice, in 2021 and 2023.

The session began with an excellent version of Jazz Performance by Claude Diallo. Participants include faculty members and students of the Department and musicians from Shillong, ranging from young children to adults. Claude conducted a master class on Jazz Piano. Participants gained hands-on experience through a step-by-step tutorial and guidance for Jazz Progression, exercises, and improvisation.

The class concluded with an outstanding jazz performance jam session between participants and facilitators.

From July 4-11, 2024, Martin Luther Christian University, Shillong, in collaboration with PRIME Meghalaya, hosted Impact Week 2024. The event aimed to tackle pressing issues like pollution, sustainable tourism, youth employment, and waste management. Dignitaries, including the Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K Sangma, graced the closing ceremony. The week featured Design Thinking workshops for faculty and 105 students from across eight districts, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Highlights included the “Train-The-Coach” phase, interactive sessions, and the Impact Week Challenge, culminating in the creation of innovative business ideas. This initiative showcases the transformative power of education, mentorship, and visionary thinking in shaping a brighter future for Meghalaya.