Tura. JAN 28: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced on Monday the launch of game-based learning for children across the state and said his government’s initiative on this front is aimed at helping kids develop key skills like creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving through interactive play.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the Model Creative Learning Centre (MCLC) in Dobakkol, Tura. The center is part of the state’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) mission, which plans to set up similar learning spaces statewide.
“Game-based learning is essential for children’s growth,” said Chief Minister Sangma. “It helps them build perceptual, motor, cognitive, and self-regulation skills, especially during their early years.”
The MCLC project, funded with Rs. 50 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSDF), is a pilot program. The state government has provided the infrastructure, but local organizations and communities will manage the centers.
The Chief Minister praised Mere Mentor and Dobakkol Non-Govt L.P. School for their collaboration on the project. He also highlighted the importance of early childhood education, noting that children undergo rapid development between birth and age eight. “This is the best time to nurture their skills in a scientific and engaging way,” he said.
The government has adopted best practices from countries like the UK and Europe to create its own early childhood development framework. As part of this effort, traditional anganwadis will be upgraded into “smart anganwadis” with modern learning tools.
In Dura Asim village, South Garo Hills, Mere Mentor has already transformed an anganwadi into a successful learning center. The center, operational for two years, provides a safe and stimulating environment where children can learn through play.
Sourav Kumar, founder of Mere Mentor, said the project focuses on community involvement. “By working together with schools, families, and communities, we can create better learning experiences for children,” he added.
The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to innovative education, ensuring children in Meghalaya are prepared for the future.