Tura, March 3 : The two-day Youth Parliament 2026 concluded successfully at the District Auditorium, Tura, after vibrant debates, deliberations, and thought-provoking reflections by participating students.
Organized by the Department of Political Science, Tura Christian College (TCC), and sponsored by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, the programme aimed at promoting democratic values and strengthening youth participation in governance.
The event commenced on March 2 with Thomas A. Sangma, Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and MLA, 50-North Tura (ST), gracing the inaugural session as Chief Guest.
Expressing satisfaction at witnessing the first-ever Youth Parliament in Tura, the Speaker commended Tura Christian College, faculty members, former students, and organizers for nurturing democratic values among young minds.
Highlighting that the Youth Parliament is sponsored by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, he said the initiative reflects the Assembly’s commitment to encouraging youth participation and enhancing awareness of democratic processes.
Referring to the theme, “The Voice of Youth: Shaping the Future of Governance,” the Speaker emphasized that the future of democracy depends on informed, responsible, and value-driven youth.
He noted that such platforms offer practical exposure to legislative functioning — teaching students how laws are debated, discussions are conducted, and decisions are taken through dialogue rather than conflict.
“The Assembly is a place where ideas are discussed, questions are raised, and solutions are debated for the welfare of our people. A Youth Parliament gives students the opportunity to experience this democratic process firsthand,” he said.
Encouraging students to embrace responsible leadership, he stressed that good governance begins with integrity, humility, and a willingness to serve. Quoting from the Bible (1 Timothy 4:12), he urged the youth to lead by example in word, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
Dr. Andrew Simons, Former Commissioner & Secretary and Adviser (Legislation), Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, also addressed the gathering, lauding students for their discipline, research skills, and maturity in debate. He described Youth Parliament as a training ground for responsible citizenship and parliamentary decorum.
On the concluding day, Wanweiroy Kharlukhi, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), attended as Chief Guest and inspired participants with his address.
He remarked that a society which neglects its younger generation has no future, emphasizing that the future belongs to the youth. Expressing confidence in the participants, he said one among them could one day lead the State.
Reflecting on his own journey, Dr. Kharlukhi shared that he was offered a Rajya Sabha seat in 2008 by Purno A. Sangma but declined it at the time. Years later, he became a Member of Parliament, underscoring that destiny unfolds in its own time.
He also cited the example of Donkupar Roy, who was a student when Meghalaya attained statehood in 1972 and later rose to become Chief Minister in 2008.
Referring to the formation of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in 1999 under the leadership of Late Purno A. Sangma, he noted that Conrad K. Sangma had just completed college at that time, illustrating how today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders.
Secretary of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Shri Malthus S. Sangma, stated that Youth Parliament is not merely about perfect presentation but about sharing ideas and understanding how democracy functions. He acknowledged that stage fright is natural and commended participants for their courage.
The concluding day also featured a Quiz Competition and an Extempore Speech Competition, adding further engagement and enthusiasm to the programme.
Throughout the two-day event, students actively participated in debates and discussions, gaining firsthand exposure to parliamentary procedures and democratic deliberation.
Youth Parliament 2026 stands as a significant step toward cultivating informed citizenship and empowering young minds to actively contribute to governance and public life in Meghalaya.
