Ampati: Meghalaya’s South West Garo Hills took a significant step towards community empowerment with the inauguration of its first-ever Community Managed Training Centre (CMTC) on Tuesday.
The facility aims to provide essential skill development and training opportunities for local residents and is a key initiative in fostering grassroots growth in the district.
The CMTC, located in Godalgre Village under the Betasing C&RD Block, is owned and managed by the Unity Cluster Level Federation Women SHG Members Multipurpose Co-operative Society Ltd.
It is supported by the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS), marking a significant milestone in the district’s development journey.
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The centre is designed to offer need-based training, capacity building, and support for various stakeholders, making it a dynamic resource hub for the local community.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak, who was the chief guest at the event.
Other prominent figures in attendance included R.Z.D. Shira, MCS, ADC of South West Garo Hills, Crystal Ripamchi N. Sangma, MCS, BDO of Betasing C&RD Block, the Nokma of Godalgre Village, and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from the Betasing C&RD Block.
The event began with a warm welcome from the Block Development Officer, followed by a heartfelt performance of a welcome song by the Unity Cluster Level Federation members.
A presentation by the District Mission Management Unit of MSRLS outlined the objectives of the CMTC, emphasising its role in providing hands-on training, nurturing support, and creating opportunities for multi-stakeholder programs.
In his address, the Project Director stressed the importance of running the CMTC in a sustainable manner.
He shared insights on innovative business strategies and revenue-generation models, enabling the Unity Cluster Level Federation to use the centre as a hub for skill-building and economic development.
A lively cultural dance performed by adolescent girls from the federation added to the celebratory atmosphere, symbolising the unity and vitality of the local community.
In her keynote address, Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak highlighted the significance of the CMTC in enhancing skills, particularly for the youth in the district.
She proposed adding basic computer training programs to equip young learners with the tools needed to succeed in competitive exams and improve their employability.
To commemorate the inauguration, a cake-cutting ceremony was held, symbolizing the beginning of a transformative journey for the community. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by a member of the Unity Cluster Level Federation.
The CMTC is designed to accommodate 30 participants and includes two training halls, a dormitory, a dining area, a guest room for resource persons, and office space for the staff.
The facility will primarily support SHG-led initiatives but is also available for use by other departments and organisations on a payment basis, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
With six dedicated staff members, including a manager, coordinator, accountant, and security personnel, the CMTC is set to operate smoothly and effectively.
This initiative is a testament to South West Garo Hills’ commitment to empowering local communities through skill development, creating a self-reliant ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders involved.
