Shillong, 27 July 2026: The Khasi Course for Beginners 2026 was conducted at Sacred Heart Theological College, Mawlai, Shillong, from 7 to 27 July 2026. The course was organised with the aim of introducing the participants to the basics of the Khasi language and helping them develop confidence in speaking, reading, praying and communicating in Khasi, particularly for their pastoral and community engagements.
The course brought together 39 Brothers and Sisters as learners and was animated by a dedicated team of Fathers, teachers and Brothers. The principal animators and instructors of the course were Fr. Barnes Mawrie, Fr. Aloysius Hembrom, Fr. Alexius Dkhar, Miss Virginia Mawlong, Dr. Rosa Mawlong, Br. Aldo Kharkongor, Br. Eliphas Nongdhar and Br. James Marbaniang. Their commitment, guidance and availability throughout the programme contributed significantly to the success of the course.
The academic programme followed a structured curriculum covering various fundamental aspects of Khasi grammar and communication. The learners were introduced to the Khasi alphabet and sentence formation, parts of speech, nouns, genders, pronouns, verbs, tenses and moods, adverbs, adjectives, prepositions, conjunctions, interjections and Khasi phonetics. Along with the grammatical lessons, special attention was given to conversations, reading practice and singing, allowing the learners to develop both their understanding and practical use of the language.
An important feature of the course was its emphasis on learning through practice and participation. The learners were encouraged to use Khasi in different aspects of their daily life during the course. They participated in prayers in Khasi, readings in Khasi and Holy Mass celebrated in Khasi, giving them an opportunity to experience the language within a spiritual and liturgical context. These practices helped them to appreciate Khasi not simply as a language to be studied but also as a means of prayer, communication and pastoral service.
The course also included field practice, particularly on Sundays, which enabled the learners to interact with people and practise the language in real-life situations. Such experiences complemented the classroom lessons and helped the participants gain greater confidence in using Khasi outside the classroom.
The learners also participated enthusiastically in various co-curricular and cultural activities. The Skit Competition provided an enjoyable platform for the participants to express themselves creatively in Khasi, while the Declamation Competition challenged them to speak publicly and confidently in the language. These activities contributed to the development of their pronunciation, vocabulary, communication skills and confidence.
Another significant and memorable activity was the outing to Sohra on 25 July 2026. The outing offered the participants an opportunity to relax and enjoy fellowship while experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. It also strengthened the bonds of friendship and fraternity among the learners and animators.
Throughout the three-week programme, the learners showed enthusiasm, active participation and willingness to learn. The combination of classroom instruction, conversations, readings, singing, prayers, Holy Mass, competitions, field practice and the outing made the course both educational and enjoyable.
The course concluded on 27 July 2026 with the Declamation Competition and Certificate Awarding Ceremony. The closing programme celebrated the efforts and achievements of the learners and marked the successful completion of three weeks of intensive learning, practice, fellowship and cultural immersion.
The Khasi Course for Beginners 2026 was therefore a fruitful and enriching experience for all involved. It provided the 39 participating Brothers and Sisters with a foundation in the Khasi language while fostering greater appreciation for the language, culture and people of Khasi-speaking communities. The active involvement of the learners and the dedicated service of the animators made the programme a meaningful success.
A special word of appreciation is due to Fr. Barnes Mawrie, Fr. Aloysius Hembrom, Fr. Alexius Dkhar, Miss Virginia Mawlong, Dr. Rosa Mawlong, Br. Aldo Kharkongor, Br. Eliphas Nongdhar and Br. James Marbaniang for their valuable contribution to the course. Their teaching, encouragement and accompaniment helped create an atmosphere conducive to learning and participation.
The Khasi Course 2026 stands as a meaningful initiative towards language learning, cultural appreciation, pastoral preparedness and fraternity, and the knowledge and experience gained during these three weeks will hopefully continue to benefit the participants in their future ministry and encounters with the Khasi-speaking people.
Reported by Br. James Gilbert Marbañiang Sdb
