Tura, October 23: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday underscored the importance of nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for self-growth, confidence-building and cultural exchange, while addressing the SPARK Meghalaya State Summit 2026 held at the District Auditorium in Tura.
The summit, organised by the Department of Education, Government of Meghalaya, under the initiative SPARK Meghalaya — School Programmes in Articulation, Resilience and Kindness — brought together students, teachers, principals and youth from different districts and schools across the state.
The programme was attended by officials of the district administration, Education Department officials, members of the jury and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Sangma described his interaction with young minds as a wonderful experience and recalled the previous year’s State Summit in Shillong, which he termed an enriching experience.
He said he had suggested that this year’s summit be held in Tura to provide young participants with an opportunity to experience Meghalaya’s rich cultural diversity.
“The reason is that it is important for youngsters to share and experience the true richness of the state — its diversity, cultures, language, land, beauty, food and music. The journey and stay are part of the experience they will carry forever,” the Chief Minister said.
Expressing happiness that several students were visiting Tura for the first time, Sangma said the summit was intended to encourage young people to interact, build friendships and understand the diverse cultures and traditions of the state.
He emphasised that every individual possesses unique talents and potential, and encouraged participants to focus on personal development rather than merely winning competitions.
“Everybody has potential and you have already won by being here,” he told the participants.
The Chief Minister said programmes such as SPARK were designed to build confidence, instil important life values, nurture friendships and help young people become better individuals.
He observed that the spirit of SPARK extends beyond the summit and can be found in various fields, including music, sports, entrepreneurship, dance and painting.
‘This programme is at the heart of promoting talent and giving confidence to say ‘I will try’,” Sangma said.
Describing the youth as Meghalaya’s greatest strength, the Chief Minister stressed the need for the government to channel their energy productively by providing appropriate opportunities and direction.
He said that with proper guidance and encouragement, young people could become one of the greatest constructive forces for both the state and the country.
Highlighting the state government’s youth-centric initiatives, Sangma said that under the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP), around 8,000 artists were pursuing their passion while earning livelihoods and reinvesting in their careers.
He informed that artists supported under the initiative had performed more than 20,000 shows across the state, the country and internationally, including performances in Japan and Germany.
The Chief Minister also referred to the CM Elevate programme and the government’s investments in the sports sector as part of its efforts to create opportunities for young people.
Congratulating the Education Department for organising the summit, Sangma said several initiatives introduced in Meghalaya were being replicated at the national level.
He maintained that government spending on youth development programmes should not be viewed as expenditure but as a long-term investment capable of positively influencing generations.
“Students here will create spark in their locality among brothers, sisters and friends — a multiplier effect. It is not spark happening here, it is spark spreading,” he stated.
The summit also witnessed the release of the SPARK Outcomes Report 2026, cultural performances, testimonials from students and teachers, and the felicitation of District SPARK Stars in recognition of their achievements and participation.
The event provided a platform for students from different parts of Meghalaya to showcase their talents, exchange experiences and strengthen bonds across communities.
