GUWAHATI, June 19: Four research scholars represented Nagaland University as online youth delegates at the 13th World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 held in Washington D.C, USA recently.
The researchers – Swarnanjali Ghosh, Manisha Senapati, Anish Sunwar and Kezevinuo Nguzhu – from the Department of Rural Development and Planning, Nagaland University, took part in the virtual mode and engaged in conversations about the future of work and reflect on how those ideas could shape research and development.
Held under the theme “FutureWorks: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age”, the Summit focused on four transformation areas – jobs, education, skills and entrepreneurship.
The summit brought together young researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers and development practitioners from around the world and explored how technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and skill development could help create more inclusive and sustainable employment opportunities.
Prof. Jayanta Choudhury, head of the Department of Rural Development and Planning, Nagaland University, said, “Participation in international platforms such as the World Bank Group Youth Summit helps young researchers with valuable exposure to global development issues and broadens their academic perspective. It also strengthens their ability to contribute to evidence-based policy and practice at the local, national and international levels.”
Reflecting on the experience, research scholar Anish Sunwar said, “The summit was an insightful and enriching experience that gave valuable insights into innovation, digital jobs and youth leadership. To hear diverse perspectives from participants and experts around the world broadened my outlook on global challenges and opportunities.’’
Research scholars, Kezevinuo Nguzhu and Manisha Senapati noted that the summit inspired them to pursue fresh opportunities in sustainable development.
“The summit highlighted the importance of digital skills and innovation in shaping the future of work and rural development,’’ research scholar Swarnanjali Ghosh said.
The researchers said that their key takeaway from the summit was the understanding of the importance of digital skills and innovation in shaping the future of work.
