4 NU researchers participate in World Bank Group Youth Summit

Medziphema, June 19 (MExN): Four research scholars from the Department of Rural Development and Planning, Nagaland University, participated as Online Youth Delegates in the 13th World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026, held on June 11 and 12 in Washington, D.C., USA.

According to a press release issued by Nagaland University, Swarnanjali Ghosh, Manisha Senapati, Anish Sunwar and Kezevinuo Nguzhu represented the university after being shortlisted through a competitive online application process based on their academic qualifications and curriculum vitae.

Held under the theme ‘FutureWorks: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age,’  the summit brought together young researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers and development practitioners from across the world to discuss technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development for creating inclusive and sustainable employment opportunities.

The summit focused on four key areas—jobs, education, skills and entrepreneurship.

Prof Jayanta Choudhury, Head of the Department of Rural Development and Planning, said participation in international platforms such as the World Bank Group Youth Summit provides young researchers with valuable exposure to global development issues.

“Participation in international platforms such as the World Bank Group Youth Summit helps young researchers with valuable exposure to global development issues and broadens their academic perspective. It also strengthens their ability to contribute to evidence-based policy and practice at the local, national, and international levels," he said.

He added that the department remains committed to encouraging its students and scholars to participate in global academic and development forums that promote knowledge exchange, innovation and leadership for sustainable rural transformation.

Sharing his experience, research scholar Anish Sunwar described the summit as “an insightful and enriching experience" that provided valuable perspectives on innovation, digital jobs and youth leadership.

"To hear diverse perspectives from participants and experts around the world broadened my outlook on global challenges and opportunities," he said.

Research scholars Kezevinuo Nguzhu and Manisha Senapati said the summit inspired them to pursue new opportunities in sustainable development. They noted that entrepreneurship is particularly relevant for Nagaland as it can drive innovation, generate local employment and promote sustainable economic growth.

Swarnanjali Ghosh said "digital jobs and entrepreneurship are highly relevant for Nagaland because they can create new livelihood opportunities for youth and support sustainable development." She added that participating in the summit highlighted the importance of digital skills and innovation in shaping the future of work and rural development.

According to the release, the researchers said their key takeaway from the summit was a deeper understanding of how digital skills and innovation can shape the future of work, generate sustainable employment and contribute to rural development.

The 13th World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 focused on education and skills development, entrepreneurship, agriculture, technology, development finance and challenges in fragile settings, providing a platform for youth delegates to exchange ideas and contribute to global discussions on creating inclusive and sustainable economic opportunities.