Four scholars from Nagaland University participated as Online Youth Delegates at the 13th World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026 in Washington, D.C. The researchers joined global youth leaders to discuss digital jobs, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development opportunities for future generations.
Quick Glance
- Four research scholars from Nagaland University represented Northeast India at the global youth platform.
- The 2026 World Bank Youth Summit focused on “Future Works: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age.”
- Delegates from more than 170 countries participated in the hybrid international event.
- The summit highlighted digital transformation, innovation, and future employment solutions.
Kohima: Four research scholars from Nagaland University’s Department of Rural Development and Planning have gained international recognition after participating in the 13th World Bank Group Youth Summit 2026.
The scholars included Swarnanjali Ghosh, Manisha Senapati, Anish Sunwar, and Kezevinuo Nguzhu. They participated as Online Youth Delegates during the global event hosted at the World Bank Group Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
The summit connected young innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and development leaders from more than 170 countries. It created a platform where youth representatives discussed emerging challenges and opportunities linked to employment, technology, and sustainable growth.
World Bank Youth Summit 2026 Focuses on Digital Employment Future
The 2026 edition of the World Bank Youth Summit focused on the theme “Future Works: Designing Jobs for the Digital Age.”
The two-day programme explored how technology is reshaping the global workforce. Participants discussed ways to align education systems with changing industry requirements.
The summit also examined strategies to expand entrepreneurship and create sustainable employment opportunities for young people.
According to discussions at the event, developing economies may face a major employment challenge in the coming years. Around 1.2 billion young people are expected to enter the workforce in emerging markets over the next decade. However, projections indicate that only around 400 million jobs may be created during the same period.
| Development Indicator | Estimated Figure |
|---|---|
| Young people entering workforce in emerging markets | 1.2 billion |
| Expected jobs available | 400 million |
| Potential employment gap | 800 million |
The summit highlighted digital innovation as a possible pathway to reduce this employment gap.
Global Leaders Discuss Future of Work and Innovation
The Nagaland University delegates participated in sessions featuring global development leaders.
Ajay Banga opened the summit through a fireside chat on changes in global labour markets. He discussed the impact of technology and evolving economic trends on future careers.
Makhtar Diop also addressed key discussions on digital investments involving both public and private sectors.
On the second day, Paschal Donohoe highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing networks, especially in regions facing economic challenges.
These discussions provided young researchers with insights into international development strategies and policy approaches.
Northeast Researchers Gain Global Exposure
Prof. Jayanta Choudhury, Head of the Department of Rural Development and Planning at Nagaland University, welcomed the selection of the four scholars.
He said international platforms like the World Bank Youth Summit help researchers understand global development challenges. Such exposure also strengthens their ability to connect international ideas with local realities.
For Northeast India, participation in global forums provides opportunities to showcase regional research capabilities. It also encourages young scholars to explore solutions for rural development, technology adoption, and sustainable growth.
Innovation, Technology and Youth Solutions Take Centre Stage
A major attraction of the summit was the presentation of youth-led technology solutions through the Pitch Competition, Hackathon, and Innovation Lab.
The innovation programmes focused on practical solutions in agriculture, logistics, and clean technology.
Several ventures received recognition for their technology-based approaches.
| Award Category | Winner | Innovation Focus |
| Ideas Award | PanFa Technologies | Satellite data and machine learning for sustainable rice farming |
| Early Ventures Award | Crustea Indonesia | AI and IoT systems for shrimp farming |
| Audience Choice Award | SankofaFresh, Ghana | AI-powered cold chain and farmer market access |
PanFa Technologies used satellite-based technology and machine learning to improve rice cultivation while reducing water consumption and methane emissions.
Crustea Indonesia developed AI and IoT-based systems that help shrimp farmers monitor water quality and automate oxygen management.
SankofaFresh created a digital platform to improve cold-chain management and connect small farmers with markets.
Nagaland University Strengthens Global Academic Presence
The participation of the four scholars reflects Nagaland University’s growing engagement with international academic networks.
The university continues to promote research, innovation, and youth leadership through global collaborations.
For Northeast India, such representation creates stronger visibility in international development discussions. It also encourages young researchers to develop solutions that address regional challenges.
The World Bank Youth Summit 2026 became an important platform for these scholars to understand global trends while contributing perspectives from the Northeast region.