SWGH gets ‘first-ever’ training centre managed by community

TURA, Jan 14: In a significant step towards community empowerment, South West Garo Hills has inaugurated its first-ever Community Managed Training Centre (CMTC), marking a new chapter in skill development and capacity-building opportunities for the district. The facility, owned and managed by the Unity Cluster Level Federation Women SHG Members Multipurpose Co-operative Society Ltd. and supported by the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS), represents a milestone in fostering grassroots development. The CMTC aims to provide tailored training and support, serving as a dynamic resource hub for local communities and stakeholders.
The CMTC was officially inaugurated on Tuesday at Godalgre Village under the Betasing C&RD Block by Hema Nayak, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of South West Garo Hills, who attended as the chief guest.
The state-of-the-art CMTC is equipped to accommodate 30 participants and includes two training halls, a dormitory, a dining room, a guest room for resource persons, and office space for staff. While primarily supporting SHG-led initiatives, the facility is also open for use by other departments and organizations on a payment basis, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
The CMTC is operated by a dedicated team of six, including a manager, coordinator, accountant, and security personnel, ensuring its smooth functioning and success.
The programme began with a warm welcome by the Block Development Officer of Betasing, Crystal Ripamchi N Sangma, followed by a melodious welcome song performed by members of the Unity Cluster Level Federation. The District Mission Management Unit of MSRLS shared the vision and objectives of the CMTC, emphasising its role in offering need-based guidance, nurturing support, and multi-stakeholder training opportunities.
In his address, the Project Director underscored the importance of sustainably operating the CMTC. He introduced innovative business strategies and revenue-generation models to empower the Unity Cluster Level Federation to use the center as a hub for skill development and income generation.
A vibrant cultural dance performed by adolescent girls from the federation symbolized the unity and vitality of the local community.
Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak, in her keynote speech, highlighted the significance of having a well-equipped training facility in the district. She encouraged the youth to take full advantage of the CMTC and proposed introducing initiatives such as basic computer training to prepare young learners for competitive exams and enhance their employability.
To commemorate the inauguration, a cake-cutting ceremony was held, symbolizing the launch of this transformative endeavor. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by a member of the Unity Cluster Level Federation.