Shillong, Aug 12: International Youth Day was observed across Meghalaya with programmes centred on the theme “Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation through Technology and Partnership”, highlighting youth leadership, skills, and social engagement.
In Eastern West Khasi Hills, the North East Network marked the day with a photo exhibition titled “Through Our Eyes” at Mawsawa. Deputy Commissioner Anita Kharpor urged youth to pursue education, be self-reliant and make informed decisions, calling youth a “prime age” for responsibility.
The exhibition featured photos by village youth on community and equality, with Tiehsaw village winning for its series on equal participation of women and men in sports.
In East Jaintia Hills, the District Sports Office in collaboration with the DC’s office observed the day at Jaintia Eastern College, Khliehriat. Director Dr. Phervision Nongtdu called for responsible use of technology including AI, teamwork, digital literacy and skill development, and said youth should be leaders and changemakers now.
Four youths were felicitated —John Khawbung and Isa Chullet for representing the state at the International Youth Exchange Programme 2025 in Malaysia, and Rishanki Langstang and Miss Wansakani Nongtdu who will represent the state in Philippines in 2026.
In West Garo Hills, over 250 students from 12 schools gathered at the Working Women’s Hostel, Tura. Additional Deputy Commissioner Pearla Tatyana D. Sangma congratulated youth parliamentarian Nandini Ishvi O. Sangma for representing India at the 13th Commonwealth Youth Parliament in Sydney. She urged youth to stay away from drugs and become ambassadors of awareness, and highlighted the Rah-Veer Scheme.
Nandini shared lessons on discipline, time management and democratic processes. Singer Prachi Muchahary and singer Noga M. Sangma also participated.
In South Garo Hills, the day was observed at the Baghmara United Baptist Higher Secondary School. Block Development Officer Dr Hailey N Sangma urged youth to focus on entrepreneurship.
Sports persons Silseng N Marak, gold medallist at the 1st Andaman Nicobar Island International Open FIDE Rating Chess Tournament 2025, and Stracy M Marak, gold medallist at Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, were felicitated. Innovations and cultural presentations were also showcased.
In South West Garo Hills, the District Sports Office observed the day at MFC BADO Building, Ampati. Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. W.C.R. Marak stressed technology and partnerships for development.
The Nasha Mukt Pledge was administered. Resource persons spoke on skill development and youth opportunities. Cultural performances and an experience-sharing session by Raksrang Arengh on his visit to Malaysia were held.
In West Khasi Hills, the day was held at Market Complex Hall, New Nongstoiñ. Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak urged youth to aspire for leadership and civil services, stating greater representation from the district in MCS and IAS is needed. She encouraged students to use available opportunities and compete at higher levels.
Across all districts, programmes featured motivational talks, cultural events, and calls for youth to drive change through education, technology, discipline and community participation.
