The state government aims to create a skilled and employable workforce by combining the infrastructure available in ITIs with the knowledge and experience of industry partners. The Skill Development Department will work to ensure that industry groups can train students according to their specific needs, said Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister for Skill, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
He was speaking at Sahyadri Guest House during an interaction with various industry representatives on the PPP model. Additional Chief Secretary of the Skill Development Department Manisha Verma, MITRA CEO Pravin Pardeshi, Skill Development Commissioner of the State Innovation Society Lahu Raj Mali, Director of the Directorate of Vocational Education and Training Madhavi Sardesmukh, Vice Chancellor of the Ratna Tata Maharashtra State Skills University Prof. Dr. Apoorva Palkar, Joint Secretary of the State Innovation Society Shrikant Patil, industry leaders and officials of the Skill Development Department were present.
Lodha said the government is taking steps to strengthen ITI students’ skills and build a strong skilled workforce with support from industry groups. The state is working to improve employment-focused training in ITIs and technical schools with help from leading companies.
He added that industry experience will play an important role in this initiative. If companies train students according to their requirements during their education, both time and cost can be saved. Dedicated space will be provided to industries within ITI campuses so they can train students as needed. Lodha said Maharashtra is progressing rapidly under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, which has helped attract significant foreign investment. The state offers a supportive environment for industries. Companies spend considerable time and money searching for skilled manpower; by partnering with the government, they can meet their workforce needs while generating employment.
Lodha highlighted that ITIs across the state have strong infrastructure. Facilities are available in central urban areas, industrial zones and at the taluka level. If industries partner with the government, they can introduce additional courses inside ITIs based on their manpower requirements. Space for offices or service centers can also be provided within the same ITI. After regular classes, companies can conduct their own training sessions for students in the evening. Short-term courses can also be offered, he said.
Director of the Directorate of Vocational Education and Training, Madhavi Sardesmukh, presented information on ITIs in the state. Yogesh Patil, Director of the Business Education and Training Board, conducted the program.
