Shillong, Oct 14: Meghalaya Pencak Silat athlete Rimchi Sangma has received a significant boost ahead of her participation in the 6th Junior and 21st Senior World Pencak Silat Championship 2026 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, after University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque committed to providing her with free education.
The international championship is scheduled to take place from December 5 to 12, where Rimchi will represent India. Hoque has also assured the young athlete of further assistance and support from the university as she prepares for the prestigious competition.
During Rimchi’s visit to USTM, Hoque welcomed her parents and martial arts coach, acknowledging their contribution to her sporting journey. Garo and Khasi students from Meghalaya pursuing their studies at the university also met the athlete and extended their best wishes for the upcoming championship.
The educational support is expected to ease the financial burden on Rimchi and her family, allowing her to pursue her academic goals alongside her sporting ambitions. The initiative also highlights the potential role of educational institutions in supporting talented athletes who face financial challenges.
Rimchi expressed her gratitude to Hub News and senior journalist Vishma for bringing her story to public attention. She said the coverage of her circumstances and achievements had helped her receive offers of assistance and encouragement from various individuals.
“Hub News and Sir Vishma have done an extraordinary job for me. After my story went viral in the news and on social media, I began receiving offers of help and support from different people,” Rimchi said.
Rimchi’s story has become an inspiring example of how responsible journalism can make a meaningful difference in the life of a deserving young talent. The widespread coverage of her achievements and challenges has helped bring her situation to the attention of people and institutions willing to support her future.
With USTM’s commitment to her education and the encouragement of well-wishers, Rimchi will now focus on her preparations for the World Pencak Silat Championship in Uzbekistan, where she will aim to make her mark on the international stage.
