Shillong, March 3: Tura Christian College inaugurated its first-ever two-day Youth Parliament 2026 on March 3 at the District Auditorium, with backing from the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly. Organised by the college’s political science department, the event brought together students, faculty, and dignitaries to debate governance under the theme “The Voice of Youth: Shaping the Future of Governance.”
Thomas A. Sangma, Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, graced the opening as the chief guest. He lauded the initiative as a landmark for Tura Christian College, praising organisers for creating a platform that instills democratic values. “The Assembly is a place where ideas are discussed, questions are raised, and solutions are debated for the welfare of our people. A Youth Parliament gives students the opportunity to experience this democratic process firsthand,” he said.
Highlighting the educational value of the programme, Sangma noted that such platforms teach students the essentials of law-making, debate, and decision-making through dialogue rather than conflict. He encouraged participants to channel their enthusiasm into ethical leadership, citing 1 Timothy 4:12 to emphasise leading by example in word, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
Dr Andrew Simons, former commissioner and legislative adviser to the Assembly, also addressed the gathering, commending the students’ discipline, research, and maturity. He described the Youth Parliament as an essential training ground for responsible citizenship and parliamentary conduct.
The two-day event will conclude tomorrow with a valedictory session featuring Rajya Sabha MP Wanweiroy Kharlukhi as chief guest and MCS officer Malthus S. Sangma as guest of honour.
