Shillong, August 11 : Students from across East Khasi Hills showcased their creativity, confidence and talent at the District Talent Event of the SPARK Programme held in Shillong on Tuesday.
Addressing the gathering, Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said Meghalaya’s education system has made significant progress over the past eight years, while acknowledging that several challenges still remain. He stressed that improving the education sector requires the combined efforts of the Government, teachers, students, parents and the wider community.
Rymbui said the vision of the Chief Minister is to ensure that every individual receives an opportunity and a platform to succeed, build a career and realise their potential. He said the SPARK Programme forms part of this effort by helping students identify their abilities and grow beyond conventional academic learning.
Highlighting the importance of skills and exposure in a rapidly changing world, the Education Minister said the Government has been working on several aspects of the education sector, including school infrastructure, teachers, pay structures and opportunities for students.
He also encouraged students to embrace science, technology, engineering and mathematics, stressing the growing importance of STEM education. Rymbui urged students to remain confident, take on challenges and not allow setbacks to discourage them.
Congratulating the 526 students who participated in the SPARK journey, he said their willingness to learn, test their abilities and discover their talents was itself an achievement. He also called upon them to become ambassadors of positive change and described them as the “spark of tomorrow.”
Advisor to the Education Department H.M. Shangpliang congratulated the students, teachers, principals, jury members, Education Department officials and the Avenues team for successfully organising the programme.
Shangpliang said SPARK seeks to expand opportunities for students, especially those who might otherwise hesitate to participate in competitions and public activities. He said the initiative is aimed at building confidence, courage and resilience among young people.
Introduced in 2024, the programme has provided students across Meghalaya with opportunities to strengthen their personalities and communication skills. Shangpliang also called for the programme to be sustained and strengthened in the years ahead.
“Investing in students is investing in the future of Meghalaya,” he said, adding that the young participants could go on to become doctors, engineers, professionals, administrators, entrepreneurs and leaders.
Director of School Education and Literacy and State Project Director, SSA, Richa Kulkarni, IAS, highlighted the role of SPARK in supporting both students and teachers. She acknowledged the efforts of teachers working across the State, including those serving in difficult terrain and away from their families.
Kulkarni said performing on stage before a large audience requires courage and confidence, and overcoming nervousness is itself an achievement.
She stressed that the responsibility of the education system extends beyond examinations, teacher appointments and textbooks, with the larger goal being to prepare young minds for a rapidly changing world.
Kulkarni highlighted Articulation, Resilience and Kindness as the three core areas of the SPARK Programme. With rapid advances in technology and Artificial Intelligence, she said qualities that make people uniquely human would become increasingly important.
A total of 42 students participated in the talent segment. Principals, coordinators, participating students and performers were also felicitated, while students who took part in the talent competition received cash prizes.
In the District Talent Event results, St. Mary’s School Choir secured first position, while a solo performance from St. Mary’s School finished second. Government Boys’ Higher Secondary School secured third position.
The event concluded with appreciation for students, teachers, school authorities, coordinators, jury members and the Avenues team for creating a platform that allows young people to express themselves, build confidence and discover their potential.
Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills District Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, senior Education Department officials, DSEO officials, members of the Avenues team, principals, teachers, students and other dignitaries were also present.
