Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], November 5 : The State Level Youth Exchange Programme, 2024, commenced at Convocation Hall, NEHU, Shillong campus on Monday where 500 young talents from across 12 districts of Meghalaya will engage in a week of cultural interaction, idea exchange, learning, and talent showcase.

Under the theme of 'Today's Youth-Tomorrow's Leader', this programme scheduled from November 4th-7th 2024 is organised by the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs Government of Meghalaya.
D.D Shira, Director of Sports and Youth Affairs, graced the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest and was overwhelmed by the participation of youths from different districts of Meghalaya.
He emphasised the importance of nurturing Meghalaya's youth and developing friendships among them.
"This kind of programme will serve as a platform for the youth to appreciate and exchange traditions and cultures from different tribes of the State," he added.
In this programme, several youths will be selected to participate at the state level, and the winners of the state level will go on to represent Meghalaya at the North-East Level, National Levels and International levels.
The event will also host a wide array of competitions, interactive sessions and talent hunt sessions, he added.

It is to be noted that over 24 youths were selected to attend the upcoming International Empower Youth Programme at Jakarta, Indonesia.

Trewasara Hadem from Jowai, selected to attend the upcoming International Empower Youth Programme at Jakarta, Indonesia, expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, for organizing the prestigious program. She stated that her participation in the 2023 District Youth Exchange program had significantly impacted her personality, enabling her to become a voice for positive change and inspiring others.
Shanlang Kioo Laloo from Shillong, who will be attending the upcoming International Empower Youth Programme at Jakarta, Indonesia, shared his journey which began with the District Youth Exchange Programme.
He mentioned that he never expected to be selected for the State Level 2023 in October but learned valuable lessons about cultural relatability despite differences. Following his state-level participation, he gained a deeper understanding of other cultures.
Shanlang further expressed gratitude to the Directorate for selecting him for the National Youth Exchange program held in Arunachal Pradesh. He credited the programme with teaching him leadership skills and purpose, diverging from his initial plan to pursue teaching.
Dignitaries in attendance include DD Shira, Director Sports and Youth Affairs, Govt of Meghalaya, P. B. War Nongbri, Assistant Director Sports and Youth Affairs, K Passah, Assistant Director Sports and Youth Affairs, Fr. Michael Makri and D Rapsang. District Sports officers, and officials from NYK and NSS were also present.