Shillong, Aug 31: The DREAM Mission has enrolled 22 vulnerable youth in vocational training under its new initiative DREAM YOUNG, making a traditional shift from the “Say No to Drugs” campaign to “Prevention with Action”.
According to a statement, 69 youth were identified by the Seng Kynthei Katholic, Zone 2. In April 2026, they were taken to a Skill Centre for orientation on vocational courses.
Following counselling and support from ITI Shillong, Don Bosco Technical School and Don Bosco Youth Centre, 22 of them have enrolled in various trades.
DREAM director Francis Kharshiing said the idea is to give youth a reason to say yes to life through skills and employment, rather than just telling them to say no to drugs.
He said skill training can make youth economically independent and reduce vulnerability to substance abuse.The initiative is being carried out with the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society and other skill institutions.
The Mission has also written to all Deputy Commissioners to review the condition of ITIs in their districts and strengthen them, stating that skills, not just degrees, open doors to jobs and entrepreneurship today.
The next enrolment and counselling drive will be held at ITI Shillong on September 2 at 10 am.
The Mission said this is only the beginning of a long-term prevention-through-opportunity strategy.
