Tura, Aug 29: Providing an opportunity to the youth of the state to fulfill their goals and aspirations, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today inaugurated the A·chik Welfare Society (AWS) Civil Service Coaching & Training Center at the District Auditorium in Tura, in the presence of Meghalaya Speaker Thomas A Sangma, Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills Vibhor Aggarwal, and Chief Executive Member of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council Albinush R. Marak, among other delegates.
Addressing a packed audience, a majority of whom happened to be the youth from the region, the Chief Minister called the occasion “momentous and historic,” emphasizing that Meghalaya’s youth, with nearly 50% of the population under 20, are the state’s greatest asset. He urged aspirants to believe in themselves, stressing that success in civil service exams hinges on discipline, hard work, and effective study techniques rather than background. “Never forget your roots and give back to society,” he advised, sharing insights from his own journey of overcoming pressure through structured preparation.
During the program, the AWS submitted two memoranda to the Chief Minister. The first outlined the coaching center’s immediate needs, including classrooms, library facilities, and study materials. The second pressed for a rehabilitation center in Tura to combat drug abuse among youth.
Responding promptly, the chief minister assured that ₹15 crore has been allocated under the state’s DREAM project (Drug Rehabilitation, Elimination and Awareness Mission) to support rehabilitation efforts, with plans to operationalize a center in Garo Hills within one to two months through collaboration with the Social Welfare Department.
The keeness among the youth to avail the coaching facility was evident at the inaugural program itself, with over 100 aspirants have already applied for the coaching program. Organizers expressed confidence that, with community support and divine guidance, the center will become a beacon for academic excellence and public service.
Guest of honour at the programme, Thomas A. Sangma, lauded AWS’s initiative, emphasizing the need for structured mentoring to turn talent into success. “Every setback is a lesson, and every effort brings you closer to your goal,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal shared his UPSC preparation journey, noting how it shaped him both academically and personally, and encouraged students to stay determined.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sanggra A. Sangma of the AWSCSCTC Committee and a closing prayer by Rev. Frithing D. Sangma, Pastor of Hawakhana Baptist Church.
