The Scottish Universities Mission Institution (SUMI) was founded in 1886 as part of the Scottish Universities Mission’s vision to train teachers and catechists to serve in Sikkim. Under the guidance of Reverend Macfarlane, the first missionary to Kalimpong, a modest training institute was set up with just twelve students living in shared longhouses.
As student numbers grew, an English medium school run by Harkadhoj Pradhan was merged into the institute. This period was challenging, especially after the departure of the first principal, Rev. Dr. Sutherland. The early 1900s saw low attendance and minimal staffing, and while Hindi was the main medium of instruction, Latin was curiously taught even in the primary section.
Rev. Sutherland returned in 1907 and led a remarkable transformation. By 1914, the school had gained praise from inspectors and leaders alike. Lord Carmichael called its nature study “the best in any school in Bengal.” Rev. Sutherland eventually retired in 1920, having devoted over 25 years to building SUMI’s foundations.
SUMI’s legacy speaks through its alumni — from Bhutan’s first doctors to generals, judges, ministers, and educators. SUMITES carry forward a legacy of excellence and service, making SUMI not just a school, but a pillar of Himalayan educational history.
