Meghalaya’s state level youth exchange programme underway

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 5, 2024

The State Level Youth Exchange Programme, 2024, commenced on November 4 at Convocation Hall, NEHU, Shillong campus, where 500 young talents from across 12 districts of Meghalaya will participate in a week of cultural interaction, idea exchange, learning, and talent showcase. Under the theme of ‘Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Leaders,’ this programme, scheduled from November 4 to 7, is organized by the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya.

D.D. Shira, MCS, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs, graced the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest and expressed enthusiasm for the participation of youths from different districts of Meghalaya. He emphasized the importance of nurturing Meghalaya’s youth and fostering friendships among them. “This kind of programme will serve as a platform for the youth to appreciate and exchange traditions and cultures from different tribes of the State,” he added.

During the programme, several youths will be selected to participate at the state level, with winners going on to represent Meghalaya at the North-East, National, and International levels. The event will also host a wide array of competitions, interactive sessions, and talent hunts.

Notably, over 24 youths were selected to attend the upcoming International Empower Youth Programme in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Trewasara Hadem from Jowai, one of the selected participants for the International Empower Youth Programme, expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs for organizing the prestigious event. She noted that her participation in the 2023 District Youth Exchange Programme significantly impacted her personality, enabling her to become a voice for positive change and inspire others.

Shanlang Kioo Laloo from Shillong, who will also attend the International Empower Youth Programme, shared his journey, which began with the District Youth Exchange Programme. He mentioned that he never expected to be selected for the State Level 2023 in October but learned valuable lessons about cultural relatability despite differences. Following his state-level participation, he gained a deeper understanding of other cultures. Shanlang further expressed gratitude to the Directorate for selecting him for the National Youth Exchange Programme held in Arunachal Pradesh, crediting the programme with teaching him leadership skills and purpose, diverging from his initial plan to pursue teaching.

Dignitaries in attendance included D.D. Shira, MCS, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya; P.B. War Nongbri, Assistant Director of Sports and Youth Affairs; K. Passah, Assistant Director of Sports and Youth Affairs; Fr. Michael Makri; and D. Rapsang. District Sports Officers and officials from NYK and NSS were also present.