The Meghalaya government's DREAM Mission has rolled out a fresh initiative designed to prevent drug abuse among vulnerable young people by linking them directly with vocational training and employment opportunities. Titled 'DREAM YOUNG', the project seeks to move beyond traditional drug awareness campaigns by focusing on tangible economic prospects for school dropouts and youth hailing from underprivileged families.
During the initial phase of the programme, the Mission collaborated with Seng Kynthei Katholic, Zone 2, to identify 69 young individuals. These participants were taken to a skill centre in April 2026 so they could familiarize themselves with various vocational training alternatives.
Following counselling sessions and continued support provided by ITI Shillong, Don Bosco Technical School and Don Bosco Youth Centre, 22 of those participants have successfully enrolled in different vocational trades.
According to the DREAM Mission, the initiative operates on a prevention with action framework, with the core objective of granting young people access to essential skills, gainful employment and a secure future as a viable alternative to substance abuse. The programme is being executed in partnership with the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society alongside other vocational training institutions.
To widen the scope of the initiative across the entire state, the Mission has reached out to all Deputy Commissioners, urging them to review and strengthen Industrial Training Institutes within their respective districts.
The subsequent phase of the programme is slated to kick off on Tuesday, September 1, featuring a counselling session at 10 am at ITI Shillong intended for prospective participants and further enrolments.
