Shillong, Aug 31: The DREAM Mission has enrolled 22 youths from underprivileged backgrounds in vocational trades under its new DREAM Young initiative, aimed at drug prevention through skilling and employment.
In a statement, the Mission said the programme shifts focus from “Say No to Drugs” to “Prevention with Action” by giving school dropouts opportunities for economic independence.
In the first phase, 69 youths identified by Seng Kynthei Katholic, Zone 2 were taken to a Skill Centre in April 2026. With counselling and support from ITI Shillong, Don Bosco Technical School and Don Bosco Youth Centre, 22 have now enrolled in various trades.
“Prevention cannot only be about telling our young people to say no to drugs. We have to give them a reason to say yes to life,” Mission Director Francis G Kharshiing said.
The Mission has written to all Deputy Commissioners to review the functioning of ITIs and strengthen them. It is coordinating with Meghalaya State Skill Development Society and other institutes.
The next counselling and enrolment drive will be held at ITI Shillong on September 1.
