Bhubaneswar: Odisha has entered into strategic partnerships with 15 organisations and institutions to strengthen skill development, technical education and industry-linked training, with a focus on preparing the state’s youth for emerging jobs and technologies.
The Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged at a special ceremony at the World Skill Center (WSC), Bhubaneswar, aimed at strengthening collaboration in areas including industry-aligned skilling, Centres of Excellence, innovation, technical education and employment.
Industries, Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain described the partnerships as an investment in the state’s human capital.
He said the collaborations would help build the skilled workforce required to support Odisha’s expanding industrial ecosystem while providing young people with access to quality training, employment and career advancement opportunities.
Focus on emerging technologies
The partnerships will focus on several high-growth sectors, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, emerging technologies, green jobs and automotive technology.
The MoUs are expected to support the establishment and strengthening of Centres of Excellence, besides promoting industry-led training, curriculum development and reform, trainer capacity building, knowledge exchange, apprenticeships and placement opportunities.
The initiative will also give students greater exposure to modern technologies and industry practices, helping technical and vocational training remain aligned with changing market requirements.
Push for future skills and green jobs
The collaboration places particular emphasis on preparing young people for the changing nature of work and supporting sustainable development.
Officials said the partnerships would help create pathways to emerging employment opportunities while promoting innovation, digital transformation and green growth.
The initiative also seeks to expand access to technical education and skilled employment for women and underprivileged communities, widening participation in the state’s growing skills ecosystem.
15 strategic partners on board
The organisations and institutions partnering with the state include:
- 1M1B Foundation
- Calderys, France
- CIEL HR Services Ltd
- Cloos India, Germany
- Delphi-TVS Technologies Ltd
- F5 India, USA
- Godrej Consumer Products Ltd
- Hettich Poddar Wood Working Institute
- iFOREST
- Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Pvt Ltd
- OASME
- Semantics
- Siksha O Anusandhan University
- THK India, Japan
- Utkal University
The partnerships are expected to strengthen the connection between educational institutions, industry and the employment market, allowing training programmes to respond more effectively to industry requirements.
The initiative is also aimed at creating stronger pathways from training to apprenticeships, placements and long-term career opportunities for Odisha’s youth.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Skill Development & Technical Education Department, Bhupendra Singh Poonia, Director of Technical Education and Training Chakravarti Singh Rathore, WSC CEO Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra and senior industry representatives were present at the ceremony.
The state government said the collaborations would contribute to building a more industry-ready and future-oriented workforce while strengthening Odisha’s position as a leading destination for skill development and technical education.
