SHILLONG, May 22: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday highlighted that Meghalaya has the youngest population in India and emphasized the state government’s efforts to harness this demographic advantage to create a global workforce.
Speaking at the launch of the German Language Training Programme for Overseas Placement at Shillong Tech Park, CM Sangma said, “Meghalaya has one of the youngest populations in the country and we are turning this demographic advantage into a global force. If we send even 30,000 professionals abroad, the remittances can amount to Rs 250 crore a month — that’s Rs 3,000 crore a year into our families’ hands. We have been converting a challenge into a great opportunity.”
The programme, supported by the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) under the Department of Labour, Employment and Skill Development, aims to train youth and prepare them for placement opportunities in Germany. This initiative follows the successful placement of Meghalaya’s youth in countries like Japan and Singapore, with Germany now the next destination offering a global platform for the state’s aspiring nurses and healthcare professionals.
Assuring full government support, including financial aid for initial training and establishing trust for overseas placements, CM Sangma addressed parental concerns over cost and safety. “Parents once hesitated due to concerns over cost and safety. Today, the government stands as a guarantor. We are here to ensure your children are safe, guided, and given the best opportunities,” he said. The Chief Minister also committed to personally accompanying the first batch of selected candidates to Germany.
He expressed optimism that this collaboration would strengthen India-Germany relations and praised Meghalaya’s young workforce as a key contributor to this growth story.
Germany is currently facing a significant shortage of healthcare professionals, with an estimated need for 7 million additional skilled workers by 2035. Andrea Jeske, Deputy Consul General of the German Consulate Kolkata, called the programme “a life-changing journey,” highlighting that young professionals will thrive, contribute, and grow in Germany. She also pointed out Germany’s new immigration policies, such as the Opportunity Card and the Skilled Immigration Act, which facilitate smoother pathways for non-EU workers.
Jan Eben, Country Director General of People to Help Germany, emphasized the holistic nature of the programme, stating, “This partnership is not just about jobs, it’s about building lives.” He assured candidates of ongoing support, from language and cultural training to assistance upon arrival in Germany. “From training to integration, you will never be alone on this journey,” Eben added.
