Shillong, September 17, 2024 — The Meghalaya State Skills Development Society (MSSDS), in collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya, organized a dynamic Overseas Job Fair at the State Convention Centre, Shillong, aimed at connecting Meghalaya's aspiring young professionals with international employment opportunities. Designed to open doors for the state's youth, the event offered a robust platform for networking, career exploration, and skill development in a rapidly globalizing job market.

Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Meghalaya’s esteemed Cabinet Minister, served as the chief guest, infusing the event with inspiration as she shared a success story from her recent visit to Japan. She spoke passionately about meeting three nurses from Meghalaya who, through a prior job fair, had secured promising jobs in Japan’s healthcare sector. Dr. Lyngdoh emphasized that exposure to international work environments is pivotal for Meghalaya’s youth, providing not only career opportunities but also a chance to gain global perspectives and skills that can redefine their professional journeys.

Ram Kumar S, IAS, Executive Director of MSSDS, addressed a key concern facing the state: unemployment among its youth. Recognizing the need for solutions tailored to Meghalaya’s unique socio-economic landscape, he highlighted initiatives like PRIME (Promotion and Incubation of Market-driven Enterprises) and Skills Meghalaya. These programs are already making strides in bolstering entrepreneurship, bridging skill gaps, and enabling sustainable livelihood opportunities for young people.

Attendees were given a unique chance to meet with international employers, ask insightful questions, and gain firsthand knowledge of what global companies seek in prospective employees. Employers represented a diverse range of industries, from healthcare to technology, providing students with a broad view of possible career pathways. The interactive sessions not only enhanced attendees’ understanding of their fields but also gave them invaluable insights into the practical aspects of job searching, interview preparation, and networking. Many students left the fair feeling better equipped to navigate the competitive global job market, armed with renewed confidence and strategies to make an impact.

The Overseas Job Fair stood as a beacon of opportunity and knowledge, effectively preparing Meghalaya’s youth for meaningful careers on an international stage. In bringing this event to Shillong, the MSSDS and the Government of Meghalaya have taken a significant step toward building a future workforce that is skilled, ambitious, and globally competitive. With initiatives like this, Meghalaya’s youth are being empowered to dream beyond borders, paving the way for a new generation of globally-minded professionals.