05/05/2025
Dr. Mecal Ongmu Lepcha Awarded PhD in Education from Sikkim University
Dr. Mecal Ongmu Lepcha, a resident of Gangtok and daughter of Mr. Yusen Lepcha and Mrs. Sangita Lepcha of Rungdung, Rhenock, has been awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education from Sikkim University on 23rd of April, 2025. Her research was supervised by Prof. Yodida Bhutia, Head of the Department of Education and Dean of the School of Professional Studies, whose mentorship was pivotal to her study.
Dr. Lepcha’s thesis, “Women of Sikkim Pursuing Higher Education: Challenges and Coping Strategies,” is a Qualitative, Narrative study grounded in a Feminist Framework with a focus on Intersectionality. The research explores how overlapping identities- such as gender, ethnicity, class, geography, marital status etc. shape the educational experiences of women from Sikkim, both within and outside the state. The study also examines the patriarchal structures that challenges women’s access to higher education and highlights their diverse coping strategies for overcoming these barriers.
Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Sikkim Government B.Ed. College, Soreng,
Dr. Lepcha holds degrees in English and Education, including B.Ed, M.Ed, M.A. (English
& Education), M.Phil, and has qualified UGC-NET. She has contributed several articles to reputed journals and participated in numerous national and international seminars. Dr. Lepcha is also the author of two published books in the areas of tribal studies, and inclusive education. Her academic interests further include women’s studies, and mental health.
Dr. Lepcha expresses her heartfelt gratitude to her supervisor, Prof. Yodida Bhutia, for her
valuable guidance, encouragement, and belief in her work. She also thanks to each women
students of Sikkim who participated in the study, and the Principal of Sikkim Government
B.Ed. College, Soreng, for her support. Dr. Lepcha is deeply thankful to her parents, family members, husband Yehang Tshong, his family, and all her friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for their constant encouragement throughout her academic journey.