October 16, Shillong — In a momentous event signaling a new era of innovation and skill-building in Meghalaya, the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for the Meghalaya Skill and Innovation Hub took center stage at the State Convention Centre. The event, graced by India’s Hon’ble Vice President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, showcased the state’s dedication to becoming a powerhouse of youth-driven entrepreneurship, knowledge, and transformative growth. With the additional launch of the CM Business Catalyst – Student B-Plan Challenge, created in partnership with the prestigious Indian Institute of Management (IIM), the event brought together an impressive array of students, officials, and youth changemakers, all inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.

A highlight of the occasion was the signing of a visionary Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Meghalaya and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This partnership is set to drive social and economic development across Meghalaya, further expanding the horizons for innovation and employment. Chief Secretary Shri D.P. Wahlang, in an inspiring welcome address, underscored this collaborative venture’s potential to turn Meghalaya into a beacon of skill development and entrepreneurship for India.

Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma, joined by prominent dignitaries, highlighted the importance of investing in Meghalaya’s young population. He noted that over 85% of the state’s residents are under 25, making this initiative a powerful engine for growth. “We are committed to transforming Meghalaya’s youth from job seekers into job creators,” he emphasized. Through this Skill and Innovation Hub, Meghalaya’s young people will gain access to world-class opportunities to realize their entrepreneurial dreams.

In a powerful address, Vice President Dhankhar lavished praise on Meghalaya’s natural beauty, saying, *“If there is no heaven in India, then our State is itself a Heaven.”* His admiration went beyond Meghalaya’s scenic landscapes, however; he applauded the ambitious spirit of its youth, emphasizing the state’s growing tourism sector and its opportunities. He encouraged students to harness their creativity, stressing, *“The human mind exists for innovation, not mere storage.”* His words inspired the attendees to turn their aspirations into action, reinforcing that their ideas and innovations are vital to India’s future.

Hon. Minister Dr. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh closed the event with a rousing statement that captured the vision of the Skill and Innovation Hub: *“Our youth are not just job seekers but job creators.”* Her words resonated powerfully, encapsulating the core of Meghalaya’s commitment to a dynamic, youth-driven economy where innovation and entrepreneurial energy will guide the way forward.

A unique touch was added by the Food & Beverage Service Associate trainees from the B2 and B3 batches of the Shillong Center, part of the Skills Meghalaya program, who attended the ceremony. Their presence represented the tangible impacts of skill-building efforts underway and underscored the enthusiasm of young people across the state who are ready to bring change to their communities.

This event marked not only a significant milestone for Meghalaya but also an inspiring rallying cry for young minds across the region. With the foundations laid for the Skill and Innovation Hub, Meghalaya is set to become a thriving center of entrepreneurship and opportunity, offering the youth a path to shape their futures, develop groundbreaking ideas, and contribute to a vibrant state economy. For the students and changemakers who attended, October 16 was a day of inspiration—a day that affirmed Meghalaya’s future is bright, youthful, and unstoppable.