SHILLONG: The first ever youth parliament was organised by Grassroot and Association for Democratic reforms (ADR) on Monday and Tuesday at NEHU old guest house auditorium with an objective to make the voices of young people count.
The president of Grassroot, Mayfereen Ryntathiang told reporters that youths tend to shy away from participating in political reforms of the state, not only in elections. “In our research, we found most of the youth hesitate from exercising their right to vote, as they feel they do not form a part of the decision making process of development but asserted the task is up to the politicians,” she added.
The Grassroots, felt it is important for youths to actively participate in political reforms. Youths from all districts took part in the Youth Parliament except Ri-Bhoi district.
“During the youth Parliament, we felt many were willing to speak out and they come out with ideas about various issues. We are glad to see there are young people who are yearning for change,” Ryntathiang said.
Speaking of the youth parliament, she said, “The students discussed the potential of the state but also on the problem areas of the state.” “The points in the discussion will be described in a manifesto which will later be incorporated in a youth policy,” she said.
Meanwhile, a student, Lucky Lily Lyngdoh said the issues are almost the same in all the districts and said there was discussion on the solution and problems faced by youths such as drug abuse.
Another student, Abigail Chinzah, said the youth parliament provides a platform to express what has been concerning them.