Correspondent
TURA, MAY 21 (NPN): Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Thursday said Meghalaya is recognised as one of the fastest-growing economies in the country.
However, he stressed that growth must remain inclusive and reach ordinary citizens
“Economic growth alone is not enough if the benefits do not reach every household, every youth, every farmer, every worker, and every entrepreneur,” the Chief Minister observed.
Addressing Skillerate 2026 at Holly Hocks near the BAKDIL Training Centre here in West Garo Hills district, Sangma reiterated government’s commitment to strengthening skill development, employment generation and entrepreneurship opportunities for the youth of the State.
Pointing out that government had invested more than Rs. 32 crore in various skill development programmes benefiting thousands of youth, Sangma however said that the government realised that training alone was not enough.
“Many trained individuals told us that even after completing their courses, they lacked the basic tools and equipment required to begin working independently. An automobile technician may complete training successfully, but without a toolkit, opening a workshop or servicing vehicles becomes extremely difficult,” he told the gathering.
“We realised that unless there is handholding, tools, market linkage, and employment support, the impact remains limited. We identified this as the missing link, and today’s initiative is aimed at addressing that gap,” Sangma added .
The Chief Minister also spoke about the government’s partnerships with private training institutions and stakeholders to strengthen the quality of skill development programmes.
According to him, such collaborations have improved training infrastructure, introduced industry-oriented courses, and expanded opportunities for Meghalaya’s youth.
Referring to the presence of the Vice Chancellor of Captain Williamson Sangma State University, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that academic courses under the university had already commenced, and approvals for Architecture and Urban Planning courses had also been received.
Calling it a major milestone for the region, he announced that two more major colleges would soon begin under the university system. Sangma informed that a new college focusing on Agriculture, Horticulture, and Food Processing would be established in Williamnagar, with the Government aiming to begin academic sessions by 2027.
The Chief Minister also announced that a Veterinary College would be set up at Kyrdemkulai in Ri-Bhoi district.
“These institutions will not only provide educational opportunities for students but will also directly benefit thousands of farmers and livestock rearers across Meghalaya,” he said.