Govt Aims to Turn Youth into Job Creators Through Skill-Based Education
Shimla, May 19
Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani said that the Himachal Pradesh Government is making multi-dimensional efforts to establish the state as a leading hub in technical education and skill development. Chairing a review meeting of the Technical Education Department, the Minister said that the primary objective of technical education and vocational training is to empower youth to become job creators rather than job seekers. He said the government has initiated several measures to provide opportunities and platforms for the innovative ideas and skills of the youth.
Rajesh Dharmani said the present state government is working towards building a strong ecosystem for micro and small enterprises as well as startups. To encourage entrepreneurship among trainees of technical institutions, 120 experts from the Industries Department will provide specialized guidance and mentorship.
He further said that trainees are also being equipped with soft skills through Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology-based learning modules so that they can take maximum advantage of future opportunities.
The Minister said the government is committed to strengthening the rural economy of the state. He informed that several projects in Himachal Pradesh are being financed by ADB and other institutions. Keeping in view the growing demand for experts in horticulture, natural farming and dairy technology, these subjects are being incorporated into technical institutions.
To enhance practical knowledge and exposure among students, coordination will also be established with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and agricultural colleges, he added.
Highlighting the role of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), Rajesh Dharmani said that ITIs in the state are playing a significant role in developing a skilled workforce and addressing local issues. He cited the example of ITI Mandi trainees, who helped resolve street lighting issues in the Municipal Corporation Mandi area. Under an MoU signed between Municipal Corporation Mandi and ITI Mandi, 496 street lights were installed in a phased manner, significantly improving the street lighting system and resolving a long-pending public issue.
The Minister said such initiatives not only help solve local challenges but also provide practical skills and field experience to trainees. He also informed that the state government is planning to establish a Skill Academy and a Digital University for the youth of Himachal Pradesh. In addition, grading of technical institutions is being undertaken to improve quality standards.
Rajesh Dharmani directed the Himachal Pradesh Technical Education Board to work towards conducting online examinations for recruitment competitions. Later, the Minister virtually interacted with representatives of various technical colleges and National Institute of Technology Hamirpur. He said technical institutions have a crucial role in promoting technology-driven development and self-reliance.
Emphasizing environmentally sustainable urban development, the Minister said technical colleges, with participation of students, can prepare regional-level action plans for districts like Shimla, Kangra and Kullu. He said that considering the geographical conditions of the state, institutions can prepare detailed technical project plans to strengthen regional planning and improve the professional competence of students. Secretary Technical Education Dr. Abhishek Jain, Director Technical Education Rohit Rathore, Director TCP Hemis Negi and other senior officers were also present during the meeting.
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