Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, spearheaded the inauguration of the first Skill India Centre (SIC) in Sambalpur, Odisha. The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the Secretary, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, and CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International, Shri Ved Mani Tiwari.
Empowering Youth Through Skills
Addressing the youth at the inauguration, Shri Pradhan emphasized the importance of skill training programs in upgrading the skills of the youth in demand-driven industries. The aim is to empower over 1200 students through this centre and equip them with the necessary skills for the 21st-century job market. He highlighted the need for a skilled workforce to drive India’s development journey forward.
Infrastructure and Facilities
The centre boasts best-in-class infrastructure, cutting-edge technologies, and modern facilities to facilitate effective learning. It will provide a unique combination of classroom and work-based learning to empower youth with industry-specific skills. Collaborative efforts will harness the potential of demographic dividends to catalyse rural development and spur socio-economic growth.
Role of NSDC
The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) will play a pivotal role in ensuring seamless implementation of the training ecosystem. A designated Centre Manager will monitor the implementation of training programs and ensure adherence to quality standards, thereby opening new avenues for education and employment linkages.
Expansion Plans
Following the inauguration in Sambalpur, Skill India Centres will be inaugurated in Angul, Bhadrak, Dhenkanal, Talcher, and Deogarh in Odisha. Each centre aims to address specific skill needs of industries and create sustainable employment opportunities in high economic growth sectors.
Impact and Future Prospects
The inauguration of the Skill India Centre marks a significant milestone in revolutionizing the skilling landscape in India. Enhanced accessibility, personalized learning experiences, and improved career guidance will empower learners to contribute effectively to India’s workforce development.
About NSDC
The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) plays a pivotal role in catalyzing the skill ecosystem in India. As a unique Public Private Partnership (PPP) enterprise, NSDC works under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India. It aims to empower India’s youth by offering opportunities in futuristic skills and building strategic partnerships to enhance vocational training initiatives.
Important takeaways from all Competitive Exams
- NSDC Headquarters: New Delhi;
- NSDC Founded: 31 July 2008;
- NSDC CEO: Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari.