The World Skill Center in Bhubaneswar became the epicenter of innovation in technical education today, hosting a high-level Consultative Workshop on the National Scheme for ITI Upgradation.
Organised by the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, and Odisha’s Skill Development & Technical Education (SD & TE) Department, the event brought together policymakers, industry giants, and training experts to chart a transformative path for Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state and nation.
The workshop focused on the ambitious Government of India plan to modernise 1,000 ITIs through a Hub-and-Spoke model, aiming to make skilling aspirational, industry-aligned, and outcome-driven. Shri Rajit Punhani, IAS, Secretary, MSDE, underscored the pivotal role of industry collaboration, stating, “This scheme hinges on partnerships to ensure our youth are equipped with skills that meet global standards.” Ms. Sonal Mishra, IAS, Additional Secretary, MSDE, echoed this sentiment, calling for robust government-industry-academia synergy to address the demands of emerging sectors like AI, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Ms. Rashmita Panda, IAS, Director, Skill Development-cum-Employment and CEO, World Skill Center, showcased Odisha’s proactive roadmap for ITI upgradation. The state’s vision includes integrating cutting-edge technologies, fostering industry partnerships, and aligning curricula with market needs. Chakravarthi Singh Rathore, IAS, Director, Technical Education & Training, Government of Odisha, joined other senior officials in reinforcing the state’s commitment to skilling excellence.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from leading corporates, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), ITI principals, faculty, and District Skill Development-cum-Employment Officers. Discussions centred on modernising infrastructure, embedding advanced technologies like robotics and IoT in training, and developing curricula that ensure graduates are job-ready. Industry leaders pledged support for internships, live projects, and mentorship, signaling a new era of collaboration.
Odisha’s leadership in this initiative positions it as a model for other states. By leveraging the Hub-and-Spoke framework, the state aims to create a network of advanced ITIs (hubs) that support smaller institutes (spokes), ensuring widespread access to quality training. This aligns with India’s broader goal of building a future-ready workforce to power economic growth.
As the workshop concluded, participants expressed optimism about the transformative potential of the scheme. “This is a game-changer for Odisha’s youth,” said Ms. Panda. “We are not just upgrading ITIs; we are redefining skilling for the 21st century.”
