Gangtok, Nov 27: Sikkim Education Minister Raju Basnet met with Sashi Gundala, Director of Aspire Leaders India Foundation (ALIF), and Shreelatha Krishnan, Director of the School of Policy and Governance (SPG), to explore new opportunities for youth leadership and climate education in the state. The meeting was facilitated by Tshering Wangchuk Lepcha, Additional Political Secretary, Government of Sikkim, and President of SKM Students’ Wing.

The delegation introduced the Aspire Leaders Program, a fully funded online leadership initiative designed by Harvard faculty for first-generation and low-income college students. The program equips participants with global leadership skills, problem-solving capabilities, and a worldwide peer network spanning over 195 countries.

Minister Basnet welcomed the initiative, noting its alignment with ongoing government efforts such as the Chief Minister’s Mentorship Programme and other statewide academic support initiatives, which aim to strengthen youth preparedness.

SPG also presented its climate education, public policy, and green-skills programmes, designed to help Sikkim’s youth pursue careers in sustainability and climate action. These programmes have been delivered to policymakers, educators, and professionals across India, Africa, and the Global South.

The organisations proposed a collaborative approach to expand access to world-class leadership training and climate education, supporting the state government’s vision of a future-ready generation.