Department of Sports and Youth Affairs Government of Meghalaya

Mumbai / National, February 24, 2025: A delegation of 24 youths from 12 districts of Meghalaya is representing the state at the International Exposure Youth Programme in Jakarta, and Bali, Indonesia. The programme is a prestigious international forum for young minds focusing on cultural exchange, leadership and collaboration at the international level. The delegation was selected from a pool of 600 youths across 12 districts of the state. They were accompanied by Shri Bobby Wahlang, Youth Programme Coordinator, Smt. Darlene M. Khonglam, Sports Officer Headquaters (HQs) and Smt. Barbira Momin, District Sports Officer.

The youths also participated in a cultural programme and interaction with Indonesian youths at the Don Bosco Institute, Jakarta part of the exchange programme. The event became an avenue for meaningful discussions and cross-cultural learning, thus strengthening ties between two nations.

Shri Dikki D Shira, MCS, Director, Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, said “The International Exposure Youth Programme offers our youth an opportunity to engage in meaningful cultural exchange and widen their global perspectives. This is the fourth time that Meghalaya has sent a delegation, since 2015, to participate in this prestigious programme which speaks volumes of our commitment to nurturing leadership as well as creating international connections among the youth.”

He also added that the exposure gained through such programmes help to empower our youths with developing skills such as leadership, communication and cultural understanding while also inspiring them to think big and bring back innovative ideas to the communities and the state. “Participants from previous editions have returned with a broader vision for Meghalaya and I am confident that this year’s delegation will not only make the state proud but will also become ambassadors of our rich cultural heritage and dynamic potential,” he said.

The delegation toured the National Museum, National Monument, Cathedral of Jakarta, bird sanctuary, Space Centre and small-scale industries in Jakarta to explore historical and cultural sites. This visit exposed the youths to Indonesia’s rich heritage, technological advancements and entrepreneurial ecosystem. The experience and insights they will gain will contribute significantly to their personal growth and roles as future leaders of Meghalaya and the country.