Shillong, October 5: A two-day Ri-Bhoi District-level Youth Parliament got underway at Union Christian College on Monday under the theme, “Empowering Youth for Democratic Leadership and Responsible Citizenship.” Sponsored by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, the programme aims to help young people understand the functioning of democratic institutions and gain first-hand exposure to parliamentary procedures. Students from nine colleges across Ri-Bhoi district are taking part. The programme includes mock parliamentary sessions and debates on contemporary issues such as the National Education Policy, 2020 and “Social Media and Youth Mental Health: A Tool for Connection and Information or a Threat to Well-being.”
The inaugural session was attended by Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Speaker Thomas A. Sangma, Government Deputy Chief Whip Ronnie V. Lyngdoh, Assembly Secretary Malthus S. Sangma, Union Christian College Principal Dr. R.M. Manih, IQAC Coordinator Dr. J.P. Marak and faculty members.
Addressing the gathering, Speaker Thomas A. Sangma said the country needs young voices, fresh ideas and honest leadership. He said Parliament and Legislative Assemblies serve as platforms where ideas are debated, questions raised and solutions worked out for the welfare of the people. He explained that laws affecting education, healthcare, roads and employment begin as ideas that undergo debate, scrutiny and amendments before becoming legislation.
Sangma said Youth Parliament gives students an opportunity to understand this process by learning how laws are made, how debates are conducted and how decisions can be reached through discussion rather than confrontation. He said such programmes also teach participants to listen carefully, express themselves clearly and respect differing opinions. “The future of any democracy depends on how well its citizens can talk, listen and work together,” the Speaker said.
Referring to Meghalaya’s traditional institutions, Sangma said they are also rooted in discussion, consensus and respect for the community, adding that democratic practices are deeply connected with the state’s heritage. He further stressed that good governance is not limited to elected representatives, government institutions, rules or policies, but begins with responsible citizens. He urged young people to remain grounded in honesty, humility and strong values.
Government Deputy Chief Whip Ronnie V. Lyngdoh said Youth Parliament plays an important role in strengthening democracy by encouraging young people to actively participate in the democratic process. He said developed democracies are characterised by active citizen participation and stressed that greater public involvement in political life can make governments more responsible and accountable.
Meanwhile, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Secretary Malthus S. Sangma said the government wants young people in the state to succeed and that confidence and self-belief are essential for their growth. He described Youth Parliament as a simulated legislative programme that gives students practical exposure to parliamentary debates, decision-making and governance.
According to him, the programme aims to deepen understanding of democratic principles, constitutional provisions and parliamentary etiquette while developing public speaking, critical thinking, discipline and leadership skills. He added that it also encourages young people to form informed opinions on national policies, social welfare and community issues, while learning patience and respect for differing viewpoints.
The two-day programme is expected to provide participating students with practical exposure to democratic institutions while helping them develop leadership skills and a stronger sense of responsible citizenship.
