Govt Launches Several Initiatives For Skilling Youth Under NUA Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Several initiatives were launched for transforming the skilling landscape of youths under NUA Odisha programme of the state government at a function in Bhubaneswar on Friday.

Speaking at the function, Pritiranjan Gharai, Minister of Skill Development and Technical Education, said Skilled In Odisha has become a global brand. “With wide opportunities in digital skilling and emphasis on skilling at the doorstep through Nutana Unnata Abhilasha (NUA) Odisha, the youth will be empowered with employability,” he added.

Usha Padhee, principal secretary, SD&TE Department, set the strategic roadmap of NUA Odisha as it is filled with demographic dividend for all categories.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) at the programme to enable ITI students to obtain their Class XII certificates. Over 20,000 ITI students will receive the certificates annually, opening new avenues for higher education and boosting their employability.

Innovative skilling programmes designed to equip youth with the skills demanded by the evolving job market were launched.

NUA Odisha entered into a partnership with Nasscom to provide digital skilling opportunities, aligning with the demands of the modern tech-driven world. The aim is to providing e-skilling opportunities for 1 lakh youths annually, with online courses curated in collaboration with industry leaders such as Microsoft, Coursera, and more.

In the Upskilling Initiatives, more than 5,000 ITI students will be upskilled in new age trades through short-term courses, augmenting their skills and enhancing employability. Women with WSC Shakti will be empowered to create women leaders through executive MBA programmes and establish centers of excellence for girl students.

Among others, Reghu G, Director, Skill Development-cum-Employment, Prof Saroj Sharma, chairman, National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), Kirti Seth, CEO, IT-ITeS SSC NASSCOM, Gangadhar Sahoo, OSD-cum-AS, SD and other officials were present.