By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 24: More than 160 youths from across the Northeast were certified on Wednesday following the completion of the inaugural ‘Employability Accelerator Programme’, a joint initiative by UNIQLO India and Avenues Meghalaya.
According to a statement here, the certification event, which was held in the state capital, marked the end of an intensive 80-hour training programme fully sponsored by the global fashion brand.
The initiative targeted college students and unemployed youth to improve workplace readiness and bridge the gap between formal education and industry requirements.
“According to the India Skills Report, only 45–50% of Indian graduates are considered job-ready—a challenge that is often more acute in the Northeast due to limited industry exposure. The programme focused on core professional skills, including communication, teamwork, and interview preparation,” the statement said.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla stressed the importance of discipline in the modern workforce.
“Today, skill alone is not enough. What is needed is mastery, discipline and continuous learning. If you look at countries like Japan, their strength comes from their work ethic, punctuality, and commitment. These are the qualities our youth must learn and practise,” he said.
Shylla further highlighted the state government’s consistent efforts in providing platforms and opportunities for youth in skilling, entrepreneurship and music programmes such as SKILLS Meghalaya, PRIME Meghalaya and Meghalaya Grassroots Music Program.
Former Education Minister Padma Shri Manas Chaudhuri, who was the guest of honour, echoed these sentiments, urging young people to take ownership and approach their work with sincerity, drawing parallels to the Japanese development model.
“What we see in countries like Japan is discipline, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility towards work. These values are built over time. Our young people must learn to take ownership, pay attention to detail, and approach their work with sincerity,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kenji Inoue, COO and CFO of UNIQLO India, stated that the programme reflects the company’s commitment to social contribution. “Today is not the end, it is the starting point. This programme is just a trigger. What matters is how you use what you have learned,” he told the trainees.
UNIQLO India’s HR General Manager, Kamalika Deka, noted that while the Northeast has a strong base of educated youths, there remains a disconnect from professional opportunities. On the other hand, HR Manager Kanta Nagasaki added that the positive attitude and adaptability of employees from the region gave the company the confidence to invest in local talent development.
The programme saw participation from several institutions, including Women’s College, Lady Keane College, St. Edmund’s College, Shillong College and MIT University.
Trainees from across the seven sister states shared how the practical sessions helped them overcome public speaking anxiety and build professional confidence.
Bokalu Yeptho, a participant from Nagaland, said, “Before this programme, I was nervous to speak in front of people. Through the sessions and activities, I gained confidence and learned how to communicate better. It has prepared me to face real-world challenges.”
Similarly, Naira Khanam Ahmed from St. Edmund’s College said, “I joined to improve my resume, but I gained much more. I learned how to present myself, adapt my communication and prepare for interviews. It has made me feel ready for real opportunities.”
The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and a cultural presentation by the participants.
