CM Golay backs young leadership as Kunzang Choeki charts vision for Sikkim’s future

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) met with educationist and social entrepreneur Kunzang Choeki Bhutia, following her return from a strategic visit to Mumbai from June 29 to July 5. The meeting highlighted the state government’s focus on youth empowerment, quality education, and grassroots development led by passionate young leaders.

During her visit to Mumbai, Ms. Choeki engaged in detailed discussions with Ms. Khrisha Shah Ambani, known for her involvement in youth and women-centric initiatives. Their talks focused on developing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models that could work well in Sikkim, especially in the fields of education, women’s leadership, public health, and youth empowerment.

Ms. Choeki briefed the Chief Minister on the outcomes of her Mumbai trip. She spoke about building long-term partnerships between Sikkim and institutions based in Mumbai. These collaborations, she explained, were guided by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—meaning “the world is one family.” She emphasized that these ideas were not only meant for Sikkim but could also be useful for other hill states and Northeastern regions. The aim is to create models that are suitable for local needs but flexible enough to be used elsewhere.

Chief Minister Golay praised Ms. Choeki for her clear vision and commitment. He appreciated the way she connects Sikkim’s local values with broader national goals. He also expressed happiness over the involvement of youth in meaningful and future-driven work. “Young people like Kunzang are not only thinking big but also thinking for others,” he said.

Ms. Choeki is also closely involved with the Chief Minister’s Mentorship Programme, a special project of the Education Department in collaboration with Katalytic Charter Education Foundation, which she leads. The programme supports Class 10 students across all districts of Sikkim. It focuses on helping them prepare for board exams through mentoring, teamwork, and guidance. With her experience in both Indian and global education systems, Ms. Choeki is now working to expand and improve this programme. Her goal is to strengthen the skills and confidence of students, especially in areas like critical thinking and leadership.

Chief Minister Golay reiterated his government’s belief that education and youth mentoring are key to building a self-reliant and progressive Sikkim. He noted that new ideas and efforts led by sincere and dedicated young people can bring big changes. “When young minds take charge with a sense of responsibility and purpose, the future becomes brighter and more secure,” he added.