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Fire destroys Meghalaya's iconic KJP Girls' school, 131-yr-old landmark

In a tragic incident, a massive fire engulfed the Khasi Jaintia Presbyterian Girls Higher Secondary School, a historic building in Meghalaya,

By Ground Report
New Update
Fire destroys Meghalaya's iconic KJP Girls' school, 131-yr-old landmark

In a tragic incident, a massive fire engulfed the Khasi Jaintia Presbyterian Girls Higher Secondary School, a historic building in Shillong, Meghalaya, in the early hours of Sunday. The fire, aided by the building's late-19th-century wooden framework, spread rapidly, reducing the iconic structure to ashes, according to police reports.

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The fire broke out at approximately 2 am, causing extensive damage to the historic school building. Fortunately, the inmates residing in the adjacent building were safely evacuated and temporarily relocated to the Mission Compound Community Hall. Headquarters firefighters were immediately deployed to battle the inferno and protect lives.

Khasi Jaintia Presbyterian Higher Secondary School for Girls has significant historical and cultural value as the only school for girls in the North East over a century ago. In 2017, the school proudly celebrated its 125th anniversary, a testament to its enduring legacy. Its roots go back to an earlier school established by Welsh missionaries in the village of Nongsawlia, Sohra (formerly Cherrapunjee), which later became a proper school in 1864.

History of the school

Khasi Jaintia Presbyterian Higher Secondary School for Girls has a rich history spanning over a century. Its roots go back to an earlier school established by Welsh missionaries in the village of Nongsawlia, Sohra (formerly Cherrapunjee). In 1864, the school became a proper educational institution, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey.

The transformation of the school into an all-girls institution occurred in 1892 when a missionary from the Welsh Presbyterian Mission Society took over the administration. This pivotal moment in history laid the foundation for empowering generations of young women through education.

As the only school for girls in the North East during that time, Khasi Jaintia Presbyterian Higher Secondary School for Girls played a crucial role in providing opportunities for girls to receive a quality education. It became a beacon of progress and a symbol of empowerment in the region.

Generations of students have passed through the halls of Khasi Jaintia Presbyterian Girls Higher Secondary School, each leaving their mark and contributing to their vibrant legacy.

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