Over 40 students of Shillong Public School graduate from Aspire Meghalaya

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SHILLONG:

At least 43 students of Shillong Public School graduated from Aspire Meghalaya at a function held in the school premises here on Friday.

The programme was organised by Avenues, a training institute based in Shillong.

Aspire Meghalaya is sponsored by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, through the Department of Arts & Culture, Government of Meghalaya and implemented by Avenues.

It is an initiative to equip tribal youth with critical soft skills and life coaching interventions.

As many as 43 students from the Shillong Public School graduated from Aspire Meghalaya after undergoing more than a month-long training.

Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner & Secretary in charge Department of Arts & Culture, FR Kharkongor applauded the youths for completing the training programme, which he felt was necessary to prepare them for the real world.

“The youths are the infinite resources and human capital of the State. I visualise Aspire Meghalaya as ‘Roots & Wings’. Wings to help you soar and succeed in life by helping you build your confidence, conquer your fears and celebrate your talent. Roots to help you stay grounded in your culture because when you go out into the world, you will need to be proud ambassadors of your culture.”

Two of the graduates, Fiona Momin and Joshua Sohliya of Class X, shared their experience and benefits of attending the skill-orientation under the programme.

Aaron Warjri, Principal of Shillong Public School expressed optimism while hoping that the skills acquired through this programme will help the students to strive ahead in life.

He said that after a year-long COVID-19 pandemic, students have finally got the opportunity to upskill themselves through Aspire Meghalaya.

Mark Laitflang Stone, the Managing Director of Avenues also encouraged the students to learn and continue learning.

“What makes you, YOU? Owning your challenges enables you to accept your uniqueness and allows room for you to let your individuality shine,” he said.

Aspire Meghalaya has over 2000 students registered across eight districts and campuses in Williamnagar, Tura, Mawkyrwat, Mairang, Nongpoh, Umsning, Shillong, Sohkha, Narwan and Kyndong Tuber.

Aspire Meghalaya 2020-21 has kicked off across select districts of the state since December, with each chapter culminating in a talent display at the graduation programmes. Top 6 talents will be selected from each district to compete in the State’s first-ever Virtual Talent Hunt platform called ‘Aspire Meghalaya Megastar’ for the Top 22 slots from where an Aspire Meghalaya Megastar will emerge.

These talents will be documented and connected to forward opportunities to help propel their aspirations and open up alternative careers.

(Edited by Gabriel G Momin)