By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 15: More than 500 youths from Tikrikilla, West Garo Hills, recently completed a transformative 12-day life skills intervention under the SPARK initiative, marking a significant step forward in youth empowerment and skill-building in the region.
According to a statement here, the SPARK camps, an initiative of the West Garo Hills district administration supported by the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), were conducted at Tikrikilla College and Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, becoming the first such intervention in the plains belt of Meghalaya.
The programme, which was aimed at nurturing articulation resilience and values-based leadership among students, culminated in a certification ceremony on May 8, celebrating 541 graduates.
Addressing the gathering during the certification ceremony, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal said, “This is not just a symbolic programme—it creates visible, measurable change. When I visit schools after SPARK, I see students who are more confident, more expressive, and more hopeful. That kind of transformation matters. It gives us faith in the future. I commend the efforts of the Avenues team and our dedicated teachers who have made this possible even in the most remote corners of our district.”
“The 12-day engagement at each campus saw students engage in dynamic sessions on communication, resilience, teamwork, self-awareness, and personal values. It also unearthed powerful stories of courage and hidden talent,” the statement said.
“Before joining the SPARK Camp, I struggled with self-doubt and feared public speaking. But through this program, I’ve gained confidence, clarity, and a deeper understanding of myself. I now feel empowered to face challenges and pursue my aspirations with purpose,” said Jency D. Marak, a second semester student at Tikrikilla College.
Students like Rusan Basumatary, who courageously sang in front of a packed audience, Sunita Marak, who showcased her handmade crochet flowers, and Suropa Hajong, who spoke passionately about becoming a professional artist, also illustrated the personal impact of the intervention.
Meanwhile, principals from both institutions reflected on the journey their students had taken.
Fr. Regimon Mathew Paranjattu, Principal of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, said, “This SPARK program has ignited confidence, dignity, and purpose in our students. Despite challenging weather and exam schedules, our teachers and the Avenues team remained committed. Today marks not an end, but a powerful new beginning.”
On the other hand, Manseng A. Sangma, Principal of Tikrikilla College, added, “This camp has been more than a training—it has been a journey of growth, confidence, and transformation for our youth. We are proud to celebrate this milestone together.”
Meanwhile, Managing Director of Avenues, Mark Laitflang Stone, expressed his happiness with the outcome of the life skills intervention.
“Tikrikilla College is the first college in the region to receive this kind of soft skills training. This is historic—not just for the institution, but for the state. Today, over 500 students are walking away with new confidence, stronger communication skills, and a deeper understanding of human values. This is what empowerment looks like,” he said.