US Consul General Inaugurates ‘American Shelf’ at Don Bosco College

ITANAGAR, Nov 21: Statesman Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s adage that “Books are the means by which we build bridges between cultures” came to life on Thursday as U.S. Consul General in Kolkata, Kathy Giles-Diaz, inaugurated the “American Shelf” at Don Bosco College (DBC) in Jollang.
The newly established section of the college library, consisting of 118 books spanning fiction and non-fiction, is a contribution from the U.S. 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 U.S. and Arunachal Pradesh.
Speaking at the event, Diaz 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 U.S. and Arunachal and pave the way for collaborative efforts in areas like e-libraries and student exchange programmes,” Diaz said.
Diaz 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.
This visit marked Diaz’s first trip to Northeast India since assuming office as consul general.
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 U.S.
Highlighting Arunachal’s gradual progress in education under the leadership of education minister P D Sona, Fr Jose stressed that collaborations like this would further bolster those efforts. He also appealed for continued U.S. support in launching more educational programmes tailored to students.
The event was attended by American Center Kolkata director Elizabeth Lee, advisor to education minister Mutchu Mithi, Directorate of Higher & Technical Education state liaison officer Dr A K Mishra and the faculty and students of the college.