CM highlights growing Meghalaya–Japan partnership as state trains 86 youths locally to meet rising overseas job demand

Shillong, Nov 17: Meghalaya took a significant step toward expanding global job opportunities for its youth as Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the Japanese Training Programme of the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) at Mount View Building, Barik, Shillong, on Monday.

The initiative, organised by the Department of Labour, Employment & Skill Development, aims to equip young Meghalayans with Japanese language proficiency and industry-oriented skills to meet overseas employment standards. Labour Minister Methodius Dkhar, ASEAN Group Co. Ltd Chairman and CEO Nishikwa Toshiaki, Japanese tutors, and MSSDS officials were present at the inauguration.

Speaking at the launch, Sangma highlighted Meghalaya’s deliberate and focused international engagement strategy. “We are working very closely with Japan in multiple fields. Our thought process is clear—we don’t want multiple tie-ups just for the sake of it. We want meaningful partnerships,” he said. The Chief Minister acknowledged cultural and culinary similarities between Japan and the Northeast, noting that Japan has already established strong collaboration with India over the years.

Sangma shared the state’s progress in placing trained nurses in Japan, recalling that the partnership began modestly. “Two years ago, we sent just two nurses to Japan. Today, 37 are working there, many more are preparing to join,” he said. He added that Meghalaya’s nurses, currently at N4 proficiency, are being supported to reach N3 level to qualify for higher salaries. “On average, each nurse sends back about Rs 1 lakh a month. The foreign exchange inflow into the state from these 37 nurses alone is around Rs 5 crore annually.”

Under the partnership with the ASEAN Group, the government aims to streamline the training and placement process. Unlike earlier batches that trained in Bengaluru, this cohort will be able to complete their six-month Japanese language training in Shillong itself. “You are fortunate—you will be trained right here at home,” Sangma told the students.

He also welcomed the two Japanese tutors, assuring that the state would extend all support to make their stay comfortable despite initial challenges.

Encouraging the trainees, the Chief Minister urged them to fully utilise the opportunity to build skills and enhance their employability abroad.

A total of 86 students have registered for the six-month programme, marking one of Meghalaya’s most ambitious skilling initiatives aimed at global mobility.

Also Read: Meghalaya showcases culture, innovation and enterprise at IITF 2025

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