In an inspiring initiative aimed at nurturing future leaders, the “Building Young Leaders: Empowering Adolescent Boys and Girls with Transformational Life Skills” programme took a significant step forward today.
Hosted at St. Claret Higher Secondary School, Ampati, the event honoured the progress made through this initiative by celebrating students, teachers, and facilitators.
Distinguished guests included Crystal Ripamchi N. Sangma, Block Development Officer of Betasing C&RD Block, who served as the chief guest and Taposh Ch Marak, Education Officer from the Office of the Joint Director School Education and Literacy, Tura, who attended as the guest of honour.
The programme was chaired by June Hannifer Warbah, Program Coordinator at the Meghalaya Institute of Governance.
The programme’s foundation lies in empowering teachers first, training them on core life skills so they can, in turn, mentor students at their respective schools.
Teachers who participated in this training were encouraged to introduce topics like self-awareness, confidence, communication, decision-making, assertiveness, sexual rights, health and hygiene, and intergenerational dialogue into their classrooms. By doing so, they are enabling young people to build confidence, improve communication, and foster a sense of self and purpose.
To measure the impact, the programme conducts regular monitoring and evaluation to assess students’ understanding and confirm that classes are actively being conducted. The event also provided a platform for teachers and students to share their experiences and reflections on the life skills they’ve learned.
In acknowledgment of their dedication, students were celebrated with a felicitation ceremony, recognising them as ambassadors of the programme, encouraging their peers to embrace these transformational skills.
The Meghalaya Institute of Governance, headed by its Director Aiban Swer with support from educational institutions and Government of Meghalaya, would expand the program’s reach across Meghalaya.
Having started this year with Training of Trainers (TOT) sessions for teachers, the programme is already impacting adolescents statewide.
As more young leaders emerge, the Meghalaya Institute of Governance remains committed to fostering an environment that encourages leadership, confidence, and resilience in the youth of Meghalaya.
