Tshering Wangchuk to participate at international youth leadership programme in US

GANGTOK,: Gangtok resident Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha, former additional political secretary to the Chief Minister, has been selected to participate in the prestigious three-week programme in the United States titled ‘Not Too Young to Run: Engaging Youth in the Political Process.’

Tshering Wangchuk would be taking part in this initiative from October 15 to November 1, being organised under the auspices of International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).

Chief Minister PS Golay met Tshering Wangchuk at his official residence Mintokgang on Monday and expressed his happiness on Tshering Wangchuk’s selection in the prestigious US programme.

“His selection is not just an individual achievement but a proud moment for Sikkim and our entire nation, as he will be representing both at this esteemed international forum. His participation will serve as a platform to showcase our region’s innovative programs, such as Mero Rukh, Mero Santati, as well as bring attention to critical issues like Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF),” shared the Chief Minister on his social media platform.

As part of the program, Tshering Wangchuk will be visiting key states and cities, including Washington, D.C., Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Florida, and Arizona.

During his visits, the Sikkimese youth will engage in a series of discussions and activities centered on several themes: building tools and networks for young political leaders, developing leadership and communication strategies, incorporating diversity in local government, empowering women in political and civic leadership, encouraging youth participation in political issues, implementing leadership development programs, ensuring election transparency and oversight, and fostering political engagement through public-private partnerships.

“This opportunity will provide him with valuable insights into the functioning of political systems across the United States and also enable him to share Sikkim’s unique perspectives and initiatives with an international audience. I am confident that his interactions will help build a greater understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by young leaders in India,” posted the Chief Minister.

The Chief Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha and wished him great success in all his endeavors. May this experience inspire many other young leaders to actively participate in shaping the future of our nation, he added.

Speaking with SIKKIM EXPRESS, Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha expressed that he was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program which has distinguished alumni from across the world.

Lepcha is the only representative from India among the 20-odd international delegates that are attending this year’s International Visitor Leadership Program. Our US study tour comes at a time when there is Presidential Elections happening there and it would be hugely interesting and learning period for us, he said.

Tshering Wangchuk added that the exposure to US politics and democratic institutions along with interactions with the Senators would be an enriching experience. During my interactions, I will also take the opportunity of this international platform to highlight the innovative green measures taken by our Chief Minister like ‘Mero Rukh Mero Santati’, and also speak on the serious issue of climate change and GLOF threats, he expressed.