Aizawl, April 22: Mizoram Governor General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd.) on Tuesday underscored the importance of skill development, youth empowerment, and sustainable tourism as key drivers of the state’s future growth while addressing the Youth Festival – Univoyage 2026 at the campus of ICFAI University Mizoram in Durtlang North, Aizawl.
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| Vijay Kumar Singh addresses students during the Youth Festival (Univoyage) 2026 at ICFAI University Mizoram in collaboration with the Tourism Department Mizoram. (Image: x.com/MizoramGovernor) |
The festival was jointly organised by ICFAI University Mizoram and the Tourism Department, Government of Mizoram, bringing together students, educators, government officials, and young participants from different backgrounds. The event served as a platform for learning, interaction, cultural exchange, and discussions on opportunities available to the younger generation.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor commended the organisers for creating a meaningful platform that encourages youth participation and personal development. He described the festival as an important initiative that enables young people to broaden their knowledge, build confidence, and acquire skills that can help them navigate future challenges.
Emphasising the importance of human resource development, Singh said that skill enhancement and continuous learning are essential in today’s rapidly changing world. He noted that acquiring practical skills and adapting to new technologies can significantly improve employability and open up a wider range of career opportunities for young people.
The Governor highlighted that learning does not take place only inside classrooms but also through interaction, collaboration, and participation in events such as youth festivals. He encouraged students to make full use of such opportunities to expand their horizons, develop leadership qualities, and gain valuable life experiences.
Speaking on the economic prospects of Mizoram, Singh identified tourism as one of the sectors with immense potential for generating employment and promoting sustainable development. He noted that the state possesses several natural advantages, including its pleasant climate, scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and clean environment, all of which make it an attractive destination for visitors.
According to the Governor, improving tourism infrastructure and ensuring a welcoming environment for tourists can significantly increase visitor arrivals and contribute to economic growth. He said the tourism sector has the potential to create livelihood opportunities for local communities while also promoting the unique identity and culture of Mizoram.
At the same time, Singh stressed the importance of balancing development with environmental conservation. He advocated for the promotion of eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices that protect natural resources while allowing communities to benefit from tourism-related activities. Preserving the state’s natural beauty, he said, should remain a priority as tourism continues to develop.
The Governor also encouraged young people to take an active role in shaping the future of Mizoram. He urged them to pursue education, develop practical skills, embrace innovation, and contribute positively to society. According to him, the energy and creativity of the youth will play a crucial role in determining the state’s future progress.
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The festival featured a variety of activities designed to engage participants through educational sessions, cultural programmes, and interactive discussions. Organisers stated that the objective of Univoyage 2026 was to inspire young people, encourage personal growth, and create awareness about opportunities in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, tourism, and skill development.
Concluding his address, Governor Singh expressed hope that the festival would yield positive outcomes for participants and inspire them to become active contributors to the development of Mizoram. He said initiatives that combine learning, culture, and youth engagement are essential for building a vibrant and progressive society.
The event concluded with enthusiastic participation from students and guests, reinforcing the importance of empowering youth and harnessing the state’s tourism potential for long-term development.
