“American Shelf” launched at Don Bosco College

ITANAGAR, Nov 21: Statesman Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s adage “Books are the means by which we build bridges between cultures” came to life as the US Consul General based in Kolkata, Kathy Giles-Diaz inaugurated the “American Shelf” at Don Bosco College (DBC), Jollang near here on Thursday.

The newly established section of the college library, consisting of 118 books spanning fiction and non-fiction, is a contribution from the US Consulate General in Kolkata.

Designed to aid research in American history and culture, the shelf marks a significant milestone in fostering educational ties between the US and Arunachal Pradesh.

Speaking at the event, Kathy emphasized the importance of education in empowering youth, who represent the future. She expressed hope that the resources provided by the shelf would enhance students’ understanding of American history, culture, and people, while also serving as a foundation for deeper partnerships.

“This is just the beginning of a long relationship with Don Bosco College and Arunachal Pradesh. We hope this shelf will inspire stronger connections between the US and Arunachal and pave the way for collaborative efforts in areas like e-libraries and student exchange programmes,” she said.  

The Consul General also said that Arunachal has immense potential, much of which is yet untapped. “This is a place which is rich in resources. It has abundant agriculture with strong organic practices which promote sustainability. The beautiful mountains and rivers offer opportunities for eco-tourism. Its people have an impressive entrepreneurial spirit. Arunachal is one of India’s hidden gems. I’m looking forward to deepening our partnerships here and across the rest of the East and Northeast,” she said.

DBC principal Fr (Dr) Jose George expressed gratitude for the selection of his college as the site for the American Shelf, describing it as a “dream come true” for the institution. He noted that the initiative, which began in April, extends beyond the college’s students to benefit the entire state, particularly those aspiring to study in the US.

The event was attended by American Centre Kolkata director Elizabeth Lee, Advisor to Education Minister Mutchu Mithi, state liaison officer at the Directorate of Higher & Technical Education, Dr A K Mishra, and the faculty and students of the college.

US Consul General visits JN State Museum

Earlier in the day, the US Consul General, along with Director of American Centre Kolkata & Public Affairs Officer (PAO) Elizabeth Lee and delegates of US Consulate General in Kolkata visited Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum here to learn Arunachal's history.

Kathy, who was accorded a warm reception by Research Director Sangeet Dubey and staff, was given a guided tour of the museum by Dr K. Dey, DDR (M&A) and N Ray, keeper of the Museum. Kathy was amazed by the exquisite artifacts displayed in the museum. She witnessed displays with deep interest and widely appreciated the collections and dioramas depicting the life ways of the different tribes of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Consul General pledged to support the preservation of archaeological sites, objects, and forms of traditional cultural expression worldwide, as museums and cultural institutions are repositories of a vast history and knowledge.

She advocated that museums encourage and promote community growth and stability by encouraging civic pride, tourism, as well as an interest in local history and culture.