Meghalaya Launches Skill Labs to Help Students Conquer IELTS and Unlock Global Career Opportunities

SHILLONG: Meghalaya students, eager to pursue education and career opportunities abroad, are facing challenges in clearing the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), a key requirement for international ventures. Health Minister Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh highlighted that although many students are fluent in English, they struggle to meet the demanding standards of the IELTS.

In an interview with Mediapersosn in Shillong, the health minister stated, "Many skilled workers from Meghalaya, across various fields, are required to pass examinations for foreign countries. Despite their fluency in English, a significant number struggle to clear these tests, including the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)."

Dr. Lyngdoh stated, "These exams, often conducted online, present challenges like responding to queries in heavily accented British or Irish English. This makes it difficult for many students to transcribe audio notes and answer questions accurately."

To tackle this issue, the state government plans to set up skill labs in key districts such as Shillong, Tura, and Nongstoin, with a focus on language training as a crucial component of skill development. 

She explained, "We are now working on creating skill labs in collaboration with the departments of skill and labor."

The minister added, "These labs will provide technical and language training for professionals, including engineers, doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff, enabling them to meet the requirements of foreign employers."

Dr. Lyngdoh said, "The initiative will also include training in foreign languages such as Korean and Japanese, preparing students for opportunities in countries like Korea, Japan, England, and Singapore, which are facing labor shortages. A skill lab in Meghalaya will help students acquire additional qualifications. With these resources available locally, students can avoid the high costs of living in metro cities while gaining the necessary skills to succeed abroad."

Dr. Lyngdoh emphasized the broader impact of the program, stating, "A mere nursing or MBBS certificate is no longer sufficient. Candidates must also meet additional requirements, including language proficiency, to secure jobs in global markets. These skill labs will ensure our students and citizens are well-equipped to compete internationally."

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