Shillong, March 16: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Shri Conrad K. Sangma today said that there are challenges as well as opportunities for the youth in the State and the Government is making an attempt to address the issue by framing a dedicated Youth Policy.
Addressing an International Inter-Disciplinary Seminar on “Human Resource Development in South Asia: Capabilities, Challenges and Prospects” at Synod College, Shillong, the Chief Minister said, “We are looking into all aspects of development of the youth in the State to the best advantage of providing opportunities to them”. He said that the paramount thrust is being put by the Government to improve the education infrastructure and facilities in the State with the framing of the Education Policy.
He expressed concern on the poor education infrastructure in the State, while mentioning of untrained teachers and lack of Higher Secondary and Government Colleges in different parts of the State. “90 per cent of the budget for Education is spent on salaries of the teacher. It is a matter of concern and we are trying to work out measures to ensure adequate funds are made available to improve infrastructure and facilities in both elementary, secondary and higher education”, the Chief Minister said.
Expressing Government’s commitment to push forward the agenda of youth through sports, arts and culture, the Chief Minister said, “We are trying to leverage upon areas of interest and concern for the youth to put an economic push for their growth and development”. He said that the Government is working out modalities to create a conducive atmosphere for entrepreneurship and infrastructure that would aid the youth and motivate them to take calculate risks and venture into business. “I urge the youth to plunge into business ventures and take the economy forward”, he added.
The Chief Minister also expressed the Government’s intention for a major shift in policy decision to boost trade, commerce and provide opportunities to the youth with a focus on improving the socio-economic condition of the State. Reiterating on business relations with Bangladesh and other South Asian nations, the Chief Minister said that Government is working out modalities to set up Passport Seva Kendra’s along the border areas of Meghalaya, which will help people to avail passport.
“Real opportunities are lying before us and we have to focus on strengthening our ties with neighbouring nations to boost our economic and trade relationship”, the Chief Minister added.
