The Government of Meghalaya has launched a large-scale capacity-building initiative for 119 training providers across the state. The programme aims to transform the way skill development is delivered in Meghalaya, aligning it with national standards and local employment needs.
The four-day training workshop began on Tuesday at the Institute of Hotel Management, New Shillong, bringing together representatives from 86 training institutes. The initiative is a flagship component of the Chief Minister’s Skills Mission, which seeks to overhaul Meghalaya’s skill development ecosystem from the grassroots.
Speaking at the event, Jagdish Chelani, Executive Director of the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS), highlighted the role of training providers as “frontline agents” in ensuring the relevance, quality, and reach of vocational training. “This initiative is about building a stronger foundation for employability. Our goal is to equip trainers with the tools and knowledge to deliver meaningful and job-ready skills,” Chelani said.
The programme is focused on three core objectives:
Improving training quality to meet national and industry standards
Expanding the scope and reach of skill development programmes, especially in rural areas
Strengthening coordination between training institutions and industry for better job placements
Participants will engage in structured sessions led by partner institutions such as the Directorate of Employment and Craftsmanship Training, Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), PRIME Rural, and Avenues. These collaborations are expected to create an integrated, market-driven skill development system across Meghalaya.
A key part of the initiative is the identification of block- and village-level skill gaps, enabling training centres to customise their offerings based on actual local demand. The government has also directed providers to build stronger linkages with employers to ensure that training translates into tangible job placements.
“Skill development must move beyond training for the sake of training. It must be outcome-driven and aligned with what the market actually needs,” said a senior official from the Labour Department.
Running until July 4, the workshop will also focus on innovative teaching methodologies, monitoring tools, and planning frameworks that empower trainers to deliver effective, accountable, and community-centric programmes. Sessions are designed to help trainers adapt to evolving employment trends, including digital skills, entrepreneurship, and service-sector opportunities.
The state government sees this initiative as a cornerstone reform to reduce youth unemployment and unlock economic potential in Meghalaya’s rural and semi-urban regions. With limited job opportunities in remote areas, officials hope that improved vocational education can spark local entrepreneurship and reduce outmigration.