The room buzzed with excitement as Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay pressed a button, unveiling the official logo of the Sikkim Students Sphere (S3) Podcast. The event, held at Gangtok’s conference hall on May 2, marked a turning point for student voices in the state. The podcast “Voices of Tomorrow, Stories of Today” aims to give young people a platform to share their ideas, struggles, and dreams.
The SKM Students’ Wing attended the launch, and the S3 Podcast team, led by Aditya Golay and the logo designer Phurba Doma Lepcha, the Chief Minister, called the initiative a “powerful tool for youth empowerment” and praised the team for their vision.
The Launch Event: A Turning Point for Student Voices
The event was more than just a logo reveal, it was a statement. Over 150 students, educators, and media representatives packed the venue, with many more watching live updates on social media. A Facebook post about the launch garnered 60+ comments and three shares within hours, showing early public interest.
Chief Minister Tamang-Golay emphasized the podcast’s role in bridging the gap between students and policymakers. “This is not just about entertainment,” he said. “It’s about giving our youth a real voice in shaping Sikkim’s future.”
The podcast’s team leader, Aditya Golay, revealed that the first season will feature interviews with students, teachers, and local leaders, covering topics like education, career opportunities, and mental health.
Behind the Viral Logo: Art Meets Identity
The S3 Podcast’s logo, designed by Phurba Doma Lepcha, quickly caught attention online. The minimalist yet bold design blends traditional Sikkimese motifs with a modern microphone, symbolizing heritage and meeting innovation.
Lepcha, a 22-year-old graphic designer from Gangtok, explained her inspiration: “I wanted something that felt local but also fresh, like the students themselves.” The blue and white logo represents clarity and ambition, while the abstract mountain silhouette nods to Sikkim’s landscape.
The design went viral on Instagram, with over 1,200 likes in its first 24 hours. Many users called it “clean, meaningful, and instantly recognizable.”
What the S3 Podcast Will Offer
The podcast is structured to be by students, for students. Episodes will run weekly, each focusing on a different theme:
- Career Talks – Interviews with professionals from Sikkim and beyond.
- Campus Diaries – Real stories from students about school life.
- Policy Corner – Discussions on how government decisions affect youth.
A Class 10 student from Tashi Namgyal Academy shared her excitement: “Finally, a place where our opinions matter. I can’t wait to hear stories from kids like me.”
Government and Community Backing
The SKM Students’ Wing played a key role in organizing the launch. Their involvement ensures the podcast stays student-driven while receiving institutional support.
This isn’t just a one-off project. The Sikkim government has been pushing for more youth engagement in recent years, including:
- Free digital skills training for over 5,000 students since 2023.
- Increased scholarships for higher education.
- Startup grants for young entrepreneurs.
The S3 Podcast fits right into this vision.
Why Sikkim Needed This Podcast
Sikkim has one of the youngest populations in India, with over 65% under 35. Yet, until now, there was no dedicated platform for their voices.
Most media in the region focus on tourism or politics, leaving students feeling unheard. The S3 Podcast changes that.
Experts say such initiatives can reduce youth migration by making them feel valued in their home state. “When young people see their stories reflected, they’re more likely to stay and contribute,” said a sociologist from Sikkim University.
Challenges and What’s Next
While the launch was successful, the team faced hurdles:
- Funding – Currently supported by the SKM Students’ Wing, but sponsorships may be needed.
- Consistency – Will students keep tuning in? The team plans interactive polls to let listeners pick topics.
Plans include:
- Live audience recordings in schools.
- A YouTube channel for video interviews.
- Collaborations with other Northeast student groups.
How You Can Get Involved
The S3 Podcast is live on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and JioSaavn. Students can:
- Submit story ideas via Instagram (@S3Podcast).
- Join discussions using #VoicesOfSikkim.
- Volunteer to help with research or hosting.
Conclusion: Just the Beginning
As Chief Minister Tamang-Golay said at the launch, “This is not the end—it’s the start of something big.” With its viral logo, strong backing, and clear mission, the S3 Podcast could redefine how Sikkim’s youth engage with the world.
One student put it best: “We’ve been waiting for this. Now, it’s our turn to speak.”
