Now, Shillong has the Institute of UN studies

Shillong, Dec 4: Meghalaya chief minister Mukul Sangma said there is the possibility of the UN lending its experience and expertise in the implementation of the Integrated Basin and Livelihood Programme of the Meghalaya government.

Sangma revealed about the possibility during the inauguration of the Institute of United Nation Studies – Meghalaya Chapter and United Nation Association – Meghalaya. The institute will not only provide employment opportunities but also enrich the youths of the state as well as north east about the various activities of the United Nations.

Sangma said, “The government has decided to allocate a land required for opening the United Nation Resource Centre in Shillong making the state capital as the place for other neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar to take up the courses.”

Sangma was hopeful of setting up more institutes in the state to reach out to the youth of the region.

Sangma said the courses offered by the United Nation in the state will also help the different departments of the government in handling various challenges while implementing the different programmes by getting access to the various organizations of the UN.

Sangma observed, “Certain knowledge and solutions can be replicated to the situation in Meghalaya.” He cited an example of how Meghalaya adopted an experience of the UN organization in Africa while tackling Malaria in the state.

IFUNA secretary general Suresh Srivastava, who also spoke during the function, gave a historical account of the United Nations while adding that a diploma through this institute may not ensure a job in the UN but it will definitely go a long way in making the students of the institute better people.

Meghalaya principal secretary KS Kropha, who was also present, said, “We will now be part of a global venture through this small step.” He said this institute will offer six month diploma courses on the United Nations and the curriculum will cover UN bodies such as UNICEF, UNESCO, the World Bank and such.

The six month courses will commence from the 15th of December 2012.-By Our Reporter