Ampati, Jan 14: Making strides in community empowerment, South West Garo Hills inaugurated its first Community Managed Training Centre (CMTC) on Tuesday, ushering in a new era of skill development and training opportunities for the district.
The facility, owned and managed by the Unity Cluster Level Federation Women SHG Members Multipurpose Co-operative Society Ltd., is supported by the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS) and marks a significant milestone in fostering grassroots development. The centre, established to provide need-based training and nurturing support, will serve as a dynamic resource hub for local communities and stakeholders.
The CMTC was inaugurated at Godalgre Village under the Betasing C&RD Block by Hema Nayak, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of South West Garo Hills, who graced the event as the Chief Guest. Joining her were prominent dignitaries, including R.Z.D. Shira, MCS, ADC, SWGH, Crystal Ripamchi N. Sangma, MCS, BDO, Betasing C&RD Block, Nokma of Godalgre Village, and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Betasing C&RD Block.
The inauguration program began with a warm welcome by the Block Development Officer, followed by a soulful welcome song performed by members of the Unity Cluster Level Federation. The District Mission Management Unit of MSRLS highlighted the vision and objectives behind the CMTC, emphasizing its role in providing need-based handholding, nurturing support, and a venue for multi-stakeholder training programs.
Addressing the gathering, the Project Director emphasized the importance of running the CMTC sustainably. He shared innovative business strategies and revenue-generation models, empowering the Unity Cluster Level Federation to use the center as a hub for skill-building and income generation.
A vibrant cultural dance was also performed by adolescent girls from the federation, symbolizing the unity and energy of the community.
In her keynote speech, Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak stressed the value of a well-equipped training facility within the district and shared insights on leveraging the CMTC for enhancing skills, particularly for the youth. She also proposed initiatives such as basic computer training to help young learners prepare for competitive exams and improve employability.
To commemorate the occasion, a cake-cutting ceremony was held, symbolizing the start of this transformative journey. The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by a CLF member.
The state-of-the-art CMTC is equipped to accommodate 30 participants and features two training halls, a dormitory, a dining room, a guest room for resource persons, and office space for staff. The center will not only serve as a hub for SHG-led initiatives but is also open for use by other departments and organizations on a payment basis, ensuring its sustainability.
The CMTC is staffed by six dedicated personnel, including a manager, coordinator, accountant, and security staff, ensuring its smooth operation and success.
This visionary initiative underscores the district’s commitment to empowering its communities, fostering skill development, and creating a self-reliant ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders.
