The Odisha Higher Education Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Board of Practical Training (BOPT) and the BFSI Sector Skill Council of India, Mumbai, in Bhubaneswar on April 15, 2025.
This collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing skill development and employability for students across the state’s educational institutions.
The MoU introduces the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP), which will be implemented in 87 educational institutions across Odisha in partnership with BOPT. This initiative aims to integrate practical training with academic curricula, ensuring students gain hands-on experience through internships. Universities and colleges under the Odisha government will now offer structured internship opportunities, enabling students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry requirements.
In addition, the BFSI Sector Skill Council will oversee the provision of specialized education in the banking, finance, and insurance sectors. This training will be offered free of cost to students enrolled in participating institutions. The program includes a robust creditization framework, allowing students to earn academic credits for their practical training. By equipping students with industry-relevant skills, the initiative seeks to enhance their employability and prepare them for diverse career opportunities in the financial sector.
The signing ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj and Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Higher Education Department, Arvind Agrawal. Speaking at the event, Minister Suraj emphasized the transformative potential of the MoU, stating, “This partnership will empower our students with the skills and practical exposure needed to excel in competitive industries. It is a crucial step toward building a future-ready workforce.”
The collaboration aligns with Odisha’s broader vision of fostering a skill-based education ecosystem. By combining academic learning with real-world applications, the AEDP and BFSI programs aim to create a talent pool capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. The free-of-cost training in banking, finance, and insurance sectors is expected to benefit thousands of students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, by providing them access to high-quality education and career pathways.
This MoU is poised to set a precedent for other states, showcasing how strategic partnerships between government bodies and skill councils can drive educational reform and economic growth. As Odisha takes bold steps toward skill development, the initiative promises to unlock new opportunities for its youth, fostering innovation and self-reliance.
