Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has said that the state government will explore scaling up the SPARK programme (School Programmes in Articulation, Resilience, and Kindness) to other districts, making it a model programme for holistic student development across Meghalaya.
Addressing the SPARK Summit held in Tura today, Sangma stated that the initiative has proven how simple yet focused interventions in communication, soft skills, positive thinking, and kindness can significantly transform young minds. He said the initiative is equipping students with vital skills of communication, articulation, resilience and a positive attitude, which important as academic qualifications in today’s world.
He said the programme has brought visible changes in students’ behaviour, confidence, and academic engagement across schools in West Garo Hills and mentioned how the programme has helped in breaking inhibitions among students, improving their speaking abilities and developing critical thinking.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector and said it will continue to support innovative initiatives like SPARK to bridge learning gaps and nurture well-rounded individuals.
The Chief Minister through a detailed presentation shared his vision of building a generation of confident, kind, and responsible citizens who will contribute positively to society. He mentioned that initiatives like SPARK are in line with the broader goals of the government’s education policy focused on holistic learning, emotional well-being and leadership development.
The summit marked the celebration of a year of milestones under the SPARK, an initiative of the Department of Education, Government of Meghalaya, under Samagra Shiksha.
Advisor to the government Himalaya M Shangpliang, Swapnil Tembe, Secretary, Education and Director of School Education & Literacy and State Project Director, SEMAM-SSA; West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Chelani along with principals of various schools in Garo Hills region and other dignitaries were also present.
Earlier, Tembe presented the SPARK Outcomes Report, sharing insights into the key achievements of the initiative.
The programme had testimonials from students and teachers who shared their experiences and the impact of SPARK on their personal and academic growth.
The summit also highlighted the “Plasticured” initiative in collaboration with AI-VI.IN, Bangalore, encouraging responsible resource use and sustainable practices among students.
The programme concluded with the distribution of tablets and felicitation of school principals, teachers, and students for their leadership and achievements under SPARK. Cultural performances by students of Dadenggre Puri Government Higher Secondary School and Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School, Tura, added vibrancy to the event.
