Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani today here chaired a review meeting of the Technical Education Department and said that the state government was making multi-dimensional efforts to establish Himachal as a leading state in the field of technical education and skill development. He said that the primary objective of technical education and vocational training is to empower youth to become job creators rather than job seekers.
He said that the government has taken several initiatives to provide opportunities and develop platform for the innovative ideas and skills of youth of the state. Shri Dharmani said that the present state government was working towards building a strong ecosystem for micro and small enterprises as well as startups.
To encourage trainees of various technical institutions towards entrepreneurship, 120 experts from the Industries Department would provide specialized guidance and mentorship. In addition, trainees were being equipped with soft skills through Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology-based learning modules which would help in ensuring maximum advantage of future opportunities.
The Minister said that the government was committed to strengthen the rural economy of the state. Several projects in the state were being financed by ADB and other institutions. Keeping in view the growing demand for subject experts in horticulture, natural farming and dairy technology, these subjects were being incorporated into technical institutions. He said that to enhance student's practical knowledge and exposure coordination would be established with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and agricultural colleges.
He further said that Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in the state were playing a significant role in developing a skilled workforce. Trainees were also contributing meaningfully towards solving local issues. He said that trainees of ITI Mandi performed commendable work in resolving street lighting issues in the Municipal Corporation Mandi area. Under an MoU signed between Municipal Corporation Mandi and ITI Mandi, 496 street lights were installed in a phased manner, ensuring improvement in the street lighting system and addressing a long-pending issue of the local public.
Shri Dharmani said that such initiatives would not only help resolve local challenges but also enhance the practical skills and field experience of trainees. He further said that the state government was also planning to establish a Skill Academy and a Digital University for the youth of the state.
Grading of technical institutions was also being undertaken to improve quality standards. He directed the Himachal Pradesh Technical Education Board to work towards conducting online examinations for recruitment competitions.
Later, the Minister virtually interacted with representatives of various technical colleges and National Institute of Technology Hamirpur. He said that technical institutions have a crucial role in promoting technology-driven development and self-reliance.
Rajesh Dharmani while emphasizing environmentally sustainable urban development said that technical colleges with the participation of students can prepare regional-level action plans for districts such as Shimla, Kangra and Kullu. Keeping the geographical conditions of the state in view, institutions can prepare detailed technical project plans to strengthen regional planning and improve professional competence of the students in the state.
Secretary Technical Education Dr. Abhishek Jain, Director Technical Education Rohit Rathore, Director TCP Hemis Negi and other senior officers were also present on the occasion.