What if an edupreneur doesn’t need a big start to make a significant impact? Imagine beginning with just one computer, four students, and Rs 85 in pocket, from a modest family, with not much leverage, and eventually leading one of the most prominent universities in North East India and the best private university? While it may sound unbelievable, this accomplishment is the inspiring reality of Mahbubul Hoque, the Founder-Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), who proved that all things are possible with just a positive mindset. Despite his unassuming origins, his success stems from a deep commitment to supporting meritorious but underprivileged students from rural areas. This compassionate leadership is one of the many reasons Chancellor Hoque is recognized among India’s 25 Most Inspiring Education Leaders of 2025.
Starting From Scratch
Mahbubul Hoque grew up in rural Assam alongside nine siblings. His father, a panchayat secretary, earned a meagre income, and his mother worked tirelessly to sustain the family. From a young age, he contributed by helping at home, selling vegetables in the local market, and later giving tuition to fund his education. Experiencing poverty firsthand, he recognized education as the key to breaking the cycle, especially for underprivileged rural students facing systemic barriers. He worked hard, excelled, shone, and during his matriculation, bagged the second-rank holder in the state of Assam, topped his academic career, completed his B.Sc. and MCA from prestigious AMU in the year 2000, and returned to Assam to build a network of education, despite getting excellent offers to work abroad.
The Journey towards USTM
Inspired by the loss of his elder brother, Professor Qamarul Hoque, and his commitment to social good, Mahbubul Hoque chose to serve his hometown over pursuing opportunities abroad. The big breakthrough came with securing a franchise for Central IT College under Sikkim Manipal University. With a dedicated team, the college rapidly grew into the nation’s second largest, enrolling 3,700 students and receiving the prestigious Excellence Award from Manipal for five consecutive years.
Over twenty-three years, with the seed beginnings of four students, Mr. Hoque expanded his educational enterprise from KG, UG, PG to Ph.D, with over 10,000, and still counting. He established fourteen institutions, including the USTM, Central Public Schools in Patharkandi and Badarpur, Khairun Nessa Begum Women’s College, Prof Qoumrul Hoque School of Education, University School of Law & Research, and many others.
Leading with Purpose as Chancellor
As USTM’s Chancellor, Mr. Hoque prioritizes affordability, quality, and inclusivity. “I ensure accessibility to address stakeholders’ needs and adapt to make education workable for students,” he says. His initiatives include reservations for girls, free education for meritorious but economically disadvantaged students, and a Pay Back scheme for those excelling in national exams. USTM also promotes job creation and scientific advancement for national growth. He says, “At USTM, we have always believed that the true purpose of research is to serve society.” He underscored the importance of application-oriented research that blends traditional wisdom with modern science, citing their breakthrough using black turmeric as a prime example. “This latest advancement in herbal antimicrobial skincare demonstrates our mission to uplift communities, promote indigenous resources, and contribute to a sustainable future,” he added. Beyond academics, the university has adopted a local village to promote education, health, and economic awareness.
Great Expectations in the Days to Come
Mahbubul Hoque envisions the University of Science & Technology Meghalaya (USTM) reaching global heights, aspiring to achieve world-class standards where students become inventors and achievers contributing to a better world. Additionally, Mr. Hoque aims for Northeast India to emerge as a major economic hub of the 21st century, with USTM playing a pivotal role in this transformation through planned initiatives.
On a Personal Front
While deeply committed to community transformation, Chancellor Hoque finds solace in early morning walks, gardening, and reading motivational literature. A firm believer in the adage, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise,” he admits the “early to bed” part is a work in progress. Balancing his demanding role with philanthropy, he unwinds by sharing laughter with staff and playing with children, fueling his unwavering dedication to education and social good. Mahbubul Hoque’s journey from humble beginnings to leading a transformative educational institution proves that with vision and compassion, even the smallest start can create a lasting impact.