By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 2: More than 1,000 young participants from across Meghalaya converged at the Convocation Hall, NEHU, on Tuesday for the launch of the State Level Chief Minister’s Youth Engagement Programme 2025—one of the government’s flagship initiatives aimed at empowering the next generation.
Organised by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, the four days programme is being held under the theme “Empower Youth – Empower Meghalaya.”
The programme focuses on cultural exposure, leadership development, communication enhancement, heritage promotion, and fostering creativity and skills among young people.
The initiative seeks to nurture the youth into confident ambassadors of Meghalaya at national and international platforms. Throughout the four days, participants will compete in a range of solo and group events including poetry and story writing, painting, declamation, guitar, folk songs, folk dance, innovation in science and technology, and quiz competitions.
Addressing the inaugural session, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma underscored the importance of exposure and opportunity for young people, noting that transformative experiences can take place within the state itself. He expressed his satisfaction that the government and the department have taken proactive steps to launch the engagement programme.
The Chief Minister also delivered a detailed presentation highlighting major developmental achievements and the vision of the incumbent government for the state of Meghalaya.
Meanwhile, Sports & Youth Affairs, Wailadmiki Shylla said that such programs are crucial not only for integration at the international or national level but also for integration within the state.
He urged the youth to use the time during the youth engagement to learn, to explore and to try new things but also to learn the values of time management, team work, discipline, responsibility and leadership.
A total of 24 youth, who will be the winners of the state level exchange programme, will visit Malaysia and Philippines, while the runner-up winners will visit different locations in the country for youth-related activities and engagement.
Secretary of Sports and Youth Affairs Isawanda Laloo, Director DD Shira, and other senior officials were also present.
With strong participation and a diverse lineup of activities, the programme marks a significant stride in the state’s ongoing efforts to empower and uplift its youth.
