SHILLONG, Dec 2: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma today formally launched the state-level finale of the Chief Minister’s Youth Engagement Programme (CMYEP) 2025 at the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) campus. The event marks the culmination of a months-long initiative designed to provide a platform for the state's youth to showcase their talents in arts, culture, and technology.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the government's commitment to transforming the state’s demographic potential into a tangible asset. With nearly 49% of Meghalaya’s population under the age of 20, Sangma highlighted that the CMYEP is a critical component of a long-term strategy to nurture future leaders and create productive employment pathways.
“This programme is designed to give our young people structured opportunities to innovate, compete, and showcase their cultural and academic strengths on higher platforms. We believe in turning challenges into opportunities,” Sangma stated.
Implemented by the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, the CMYEP 2025 targets the 15-to-29 age demographic. The programme operates on a three-tier competition model—beginning at the block level, progressing to the district, and culminating in today’s state-level finale.
The initiative covers a diverse spectrum of disciplines aimed at fostering both individual excellence and teamwork. Key categories include:
• Creative & Literary Arts: Poetry, story writing, and painting.
• Cultural Expression: Folk songs and dance to strengthen cultural identity.
• Intellectual & Public Speaking: Declamation and quizzes.
• Science & Innovation: Design thinking and group innovation projects.
Top performers from the state level are expected to gain opportunities to represent Meghalaya on national and international stages.
The road to the state finale saw significant participation across the region. Throughout October and November 2025, block and district-level events were conducted in hubs such as Tura, Jowai, Ri Bhoi, and East Jaintia Hills, each drawing approximately 500 participants.
These events featured collaborations with agencies like the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS), which provided participants with guidance on training and employment avenues.
Officials noted that the CMYEP is not an isolated event but part of an integrated youth empowerment ecosystem. It complements existing initiatives such as the Chief Minister’s Youth Centres (CMYCs)—currently numbering 64 across rural areas—and the Chief Minister’s Scholarship Scheme.
Furthermore, the programme aligns with the state's ambitious goal to support the creation of 5,000 skilled global workers by 2032 through the Meghalaya Skill & Innovation Hub, ensuring that the youth of the state are prepared for the demands of the modern global economy.
