Tura, March 03: The two-day Youth Parliament 2026, organized by Tura Christian College (TCC), Department of Political Science, and sponsored by the Office of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, kicked off successfully today at the District Auditorium, Tura.
The inaugural session was graced by Shri Thomas A. Sangma, Hon’ble Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and MLA, 50-North Tura (ST), as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Speaker expressed immense satisfaction at witnessing the first-ever Youth Parliament in Tura. He commended Tura Christian College, the faculty members, former students, and the organizing team for taking the initiative to nurture democratic values among young minds.
Highlighting that the Youth Parliament is sponsored by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Shri Thomas A. Sangma stated that the initiative reflects the Assembly’s continued commitment to encouraging youth participation and strengthening awareness of democratic processes.
Referring to the theme, “The Voice of Youth: Shaping the Future of Governance,” the Speaker emphasized that the future of democracy depends on informed, responsible, and value-driven young citizens.
He noted that platforms such as Youth Parliament provide students with practical exposure to legislative functioning — how laws are debated, how discussions are conducted, and how decisions are taken through dialogue rather than conflict.
“The Assembly is a place where ideas are discussed, questions are raised, and solutions are debated for the welfare of our people. A Youth Parliament gives students the opportunity to experience this democratic process firsthand,” he said.
Encouraging participants to transform their energy into responsible leadership, he underscored that good governance begins with integrity, humility, and a willingness to serve. He reminded students that leadership is not about speaking the loudest but about thinking deeply and serving selflessly.
Quoting from the Bible (1 Timothy 4:12), he urged the youth to lead by example in word, conduct, love, faith, and purity, adding that character remains the foundation of true leadership.
Dr. Andrew Simons, Former Commissioner & Secretary and Adviser (Legislation) , Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, also addressed the participants. He lauded the students for demonstrating discipline, research skills, and maturity in debate, and remarked that Youth Parliament serves as a training ground for responsible citizenship and parliamentary decorum.
Youth Parliament is a visionary platform aimed at engaging and empowering students to understand parliamentary democracy and political processes. It seeks to cultivate informed citizenship by exposing young minds to debate, dialogue, and deliberation on pressing societal issues.
The programme witnessed active participation from students, faculty members, and invited dignitaries, marking a significant step in strengthening democratic awareness among youth in the region.
The Youth Parliament will conclude tomorrow, March 3, 2026. The valedictory session will be graced by Dr. Wanweiroy Kharlukhi, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha, as the Chief Guest. Shri Malthus S. Sangma, MCS, Secretary, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, will attend as the Guest of Honour.
