Innovative J&K ITI Toppers Honored at Convocation; Potential for Highly-Skilled Workforce Highlighted
Srinagar witnessed a momentous event as the toppers from 72 trades taught at Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Jammu and Kashmir were honored at a grand convocation ceremony held on Sunday. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presided over the event and personally felicitated the deserving winners.
The convocation ceremony was not only a celebration of the remarkable achievements of these bright individuals but also an opportunity to highlight the immense potential for a highly-skilled workforce in the region. In line with this vision, the Lieutenant Governor launched the Innovation Portal by Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology, and Innovation Council, Department of Science and Technology. Additionally, an e-platform for ranking polytechnics in Jammu and Kashmir was also launched to ensure transparency in the ranking process.
During the ceremony, the LG emphasized the need to focus on institutions like ITIs as they play a crucial role in shaping the future of the valley. He mentioned that J&K has the potential to become a leading hub for skills and highlighted the efforts of Mission Youth and other academic institutions in creating opportunities for the youth. The LG also stressed the importance of strengthening the ITI ecosystem to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in the region.
With the rapid growth of technology and the emergence of new sectors, the LG highlighted the need to transform ITIs to meet the demands of the evolving workforce. He expressed his belief that J&K has the potential to become the highly-skilled human resource capital of the country, and ITIs and polytechnics will play a crucial role in making this vision a reality.
To ensure the future-readiness of the workforce, the LG directed the Skill Development Department to assess the demand for skills on a district-wise basis and make changes in the curriculum accordingly. The department was also advised to establish direct links between ITIs and the local job market and provide support to ITI graduates who aspire to start their own enterprises.
Furthermore, the LG emphasized the importance of training the trainers of ITIs and polytechnics in emerging technologies like Industries 4.0. He stressed the need for a ‘Training of Trainers’ program to equip them with the necessary skills to produce a competent workforce for the future. Special focus was also placed on promoting the hospitality sector, supporting agri-preneurs, and facilitating employment for ITI pass-outs.
The Commissioner Secretary Skill Development Department, Saurabh Bhagat, commended the talented students who topped in their respective trades. He mentioned that the trades offered are based on the requirements of the industry and constantly updated to ensure that the pass-outs are ready for industry roles. Bhagat also acknowledged the pivotal role ITIs will play in the industrial development of Jammu and Kashmir, attracting investments, and creating more entrepreneurship opportunities for the youth.
To cater to the overwhelming demand for ITI seats, the department aims to revise the syllabus and introduce new trades so that students can secure employment soon after completing their courses. In some cases, there are 50 applications for each seat, underscoring the need to increase the intake capacity.
The LG also applauded the contribution of skilled workers in the development of J&K and the country as a whole. He honored young entrepreneurs and witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Skill Development Department and J&K Energy Development Agency (JKEDA) for the training of 500 Suryamitras.
As Jammu and Kashmir continues to witness increased investments, the focus on skill development through ITIs and polytechnics will be crucial in building a highly-skilled workforce. The convocation ceremony served as a reminder of the transformative power these institutions hold, as they nurture and shape the future of J&K’s youth.
The event was attended by various dignitaries including the Chairman of District Development Council Srinagar, Vice Chancellors of different universities, senior officials, heads of ITIs and polytechnics, teachers, and the parents of the graduating students. It was truly a momentous occasion that shed light on the abundant talent and potential in the region.
