Bhubaneswar: In a visionary step to establish Odisha as a global center of excellence in digital financial technologies and talent development, the Government of Odisha has officially announced the launch of the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH). With the launch of the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) in Bhubaneswar, in partnership with Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) and Govt. of Odisha, Odisha is set to become a major global fintech and digital innovation hub. Over the next five years, 7,000+ students from every district of Odisha will gain futuristic and job-ready skills in AI, blockchain, InsurTech, and digital finance.
A collaborative initiative between the Department of Electronics & Information Technology and the Department of Higher Education, in partnership with the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN), the hub is set to be inaugurated on August 21, 2025 in Bhubaneswar.
The formal announcement was made at a special event held at Krushi Bhawan Auditorium, where distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics & IT, Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education, Shri Vishal Dev, Principal Secretary, Electronics & IT, and Shri Aravind Agrawal, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Higher Education, were present.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mukesh Mahaling stated:
“This initiative blends global academic excellence with Odisha’s growing potential. By collaborating with institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS), we aim to prepare our youth for active participation in the $1.8 trillion global digital economy. The I-GFTCH will build a future-ready, innovation-led talent ecosystem, significantly contributing to the state’s GDP.”
The Minister emphasized that this program will foster world-class digital capabilities in financial technologies, helping Odisha evolve into a global hub for digital skill and innovation.
Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister for Higher Education, added:
“This strategic collaboration positions Odisha on the global digital skills map. Our commitment lies in empowering our students with cutting-edge competencies to thrive in the digital economy and drive transformative growth.”
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Global Collaboration for Local Empowerment
The I-GFTCH initiative underscores the Government’s long-term vision of integrating global resources with local talent. A key component of this initiative is a five-month hybrid FinTech and InsurTech Certification Program, jointly offered by NUS-AIDF (Asian Institute of Digital Finance) and GFTN.
Designed with real-world application in mind, the program will combine:
•Online learning modules
•A two-week on-campus immersion in Bhubaneswar
•Internship opportunities with leading firms
Targeted at students from all 30 districts, the program aims to empower over 7,000 learners with hands-on expertise in financial technologies, regulatory frameworks, and business innovation. The curriculum is aligned with the National Education Policy and tailored for industry relevance and job readiness.
The launch event also witnessed the virtual presence of Mr. Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO of GFTN, and Mr. James Boe, Co-CEO of GFTN Forums, who expressed their commitment to supporting Odisha’s aspiration of becoming a leading FinTech destination.
Shri Vishal Dev, Principal Secretary of Electronics & IT, delivered the welcome address, while Shri Aravind Agrawal, Higher Education Secretary, offered the vote of thanks, expressing optimism that I-GFTCH will create a lasting legacy in the global technology landscape.
