Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has inaugurated the Skill India Centre (SIC) in Angul. This centre aims to equip the Yuva Peedhi with modern skills, enhancing their employability in both domestic and global markets. Pradhan highlights a commitment to expanding skill development and educational infrastructure in the region. He emphasised reaching remote communities and revitalising public education institutions, particularly benefiting underprivileged sections of society, according to an official release. 

He noted that approximately 1,000 children will benefit annually from skill enhancement programmes at the centre, contributing to personal growth and national economic development. The SIC in Angul is envisioned as a hub for futuristic skills, addressing high-demand trades and promoting entrepreneurship and skill development on a large scale. It aims to provide hands-on experiences with new-age technologies, facilitating career advancement aligned with future work demands, the release mentioned. 

This initiative aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, fostering a flexible education system preparing students for real-world challenges. By offering training in diverse job roles, the center will nurture Odisha’s youth population, fostering innovation and contributing to the aspirations of young talent.

These centres aim to engage with industry experts to design evolving curricula, promoting standardisation and preserving traditional crafts’ cultural heritage while generating employment opportunities. Previous launches in Deogarh, Sambalpur, and Dhenkanal have been well-received by local youth, establishing the state as a hub for futuristic skills and boosting confidence in pursuing lucrative career opportunities, as per the release.