Itanagar: In a significant move aimed at bolstering the employability of its young population, the government of Arunachal Pradesh has officially launched an extensive skills development program through a collaborative effort with the esteemed Wadhwani Foundation.
The formalization of this partnership occurred on Monday with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state’s Department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (SDE) and the Wadhwani Skill Network (WSN), a division of the Foundation. The agreement signifies the immediate rollout of this crucial initiative across all Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) located within the state.
The core objective of the newly launched program is to provide ITI trainees with a vital set of soft skills that are increasingly recognized as indispensable for success in the contemporary professional landscape. These essential competencies include effective communication, the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, critical thinking capabilities, the capacity for seamless teamwork, and a strong understanding of workplace etiquette.
Addressing attendees at the MoU signing ceremony, the State Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister, Nyato Dukam, underscored the profound significance of this undertaking, labeling it a “milestone” in the state’s efforts to empower its youth. He further elaborated, stating, “This collaboration is not merely about imparting technical expertise, but also about cultivating the essential life and soft skills that are fundamental to achieving enduring career success,” while also assuring the immediate commencement of the program across all ITIs in the state.
Commissioner Saugat Biswas shed light on the program’s strategic alignment with the established norms and guidelines of the Directorate General of Training (DGT). He also detailed the pedagogical approach, confirming that the initiative will adopt a hybrid learning model, thoughtfully integrating digital, self-directed learning modules with engaging instructor-led sessions.
Sunil Dahiya, the Executive Vice President of the Wadhwani Foundation, articulated the pressing need to effectively bridge the existing gap between technical proficiency and practical workplace readiness. He expressed confidence that this strategic partnership will play a pivotal role in cultivating a workforce that is not only skilled but also genuinely job-ready.
Key figures present at the official signing included skill development director Sibo Passing, deputy director K V Lincon, assistant director Gyati Kacho, and senior consultants Suman Shukla and Vivek Raturi, all demonstrating the collective commitment to this impactful initiative.