Shillong, Nailur 28: The Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), New Delhi, hosted the grand G20 University Connect Finale at the prestigious Bharat Mandapam on September 26, 2023. This remarkable event saw the convergence of over 3000 students, Vice-Chancellors, and educators from across India.
Among the distinguished attendees were four bright students from North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), representing the state of Meghalaya, who were accompanied by Dr. Davidson Pyngrope, Assistant Professor in the Department of Nanotechnology and Public Relations Officer of NEHU.
The enthusiasm of the NEHU team reached its zenith when they were joined by their esteemed Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla. The G20 University Connect Finale was an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academia and the world of international diplomacy.
The event centered on empowering the youth, who are poised to lead India’s journey from a developing nation to a developed one. The highlight of the event was a compelling lecture by the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, who encouraged the young minds present to channel their energies towards the greater good of the nation.
Representing NEHU at this prestigious platform were four outstanding students: Rimiki Shylla, Arwotki Rymbai, Bankhein Rongrin, and Prastuti Konwar. Their selection among 3000 students to share the stage with the Prime Minister was a testament to their exceptional qualities and dedication to their studies.
One of the NEHU students, Rimiki Shylla, who had the privilege of addressing the audience alongside the Prime Minister, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am ever thankful to RIS and the Government of India for giving us this opportunity to attend this program, which opened our eyes to really work towards nation-building. We only knew about G20 through news and videos, however, we actually got to know what G20 is all about only after attending this program. I urge my fellow students to be more responsible and work towards building a better society, state, and country.”
Arwotki Rymbai, another NEHU student, shared his awe-inspiring experience, “I had never been out of the state, and now I got the opportunity to not only visit the national capital but also to listen to all the inspiring lectures, especially the speech from our Hon’ble Prime Minister, which has motivated many students, not just those who were there in person but also those who were watching online.”
The event also featured a stimulating Panel Discussion chaired by Prof. Sachin Chaturvedi, Director-General of RIS for Developing Countries, providing invaluable insights into global issues and sustainable development goals.
The G20 University Connect Finale served as a transformative experience for the NEHU students, igniting their passion for nation-building and fostering a deeper understanding of the global stage. It was a testament to their potential as the future leaders of India.