The Government of Meghalaya, in partnership with UNICEF India and the Centre for Policy, has launched the Young People’s Action Group (YPAG) in Shillong to empower youth as active partners in policymaking.
Aligned with the Meghalaya Youth Policy 2021, YPAG aims to build leadership, research, and advocacy skills among young people, enabling them to contribute to areas such as climate resilience, health, education, and community development.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui emphasised the role of youth in addressing climate challenges and sustainable development. Dr. Madhulika Jonathan of UNICEF highlighted the importance of co-creating solutions with young people.
The initiative is supported under the MPOWER programme backed by the World Bank, focusing on adolescent wellbeing and empowerment.
A panel discussion featuring leaders like Agatha Sangma and Sandra Albert explored youth-driven climate action and inclusive governance.
YPAG is expected to generate youth-led insights and strengthen participation in governance, with potential to serve as a scalable model for other states.
