Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), highlighted the progress made under the STRIVE initiative during an event at Kaushal Bhawan. This initiative has focused on strengthening the Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) ecosystem across the country.

 

Under STRIVE, financial support has been provided to enhance the capacity of ITIs in various States and Union Territories. Shri Tiwari noted that the initiative achieved a utilization rate of over 92% of the funds allocated to implementing agencies. Additionally, enrolments in it is increased during the 2022-23 period, and female participation in vocational training rose from 12% in 2017-18 to 20% in 2022-23, indicating a positive trend in inclusivity.

 

Speaking at the event, which was attended by World Bank representatives and officials from partnering State governments, Shri Tiwari stated, “STRIVE has contributed to improving the ITI system. It has enhanced vocational training infrastructure and addressed key gaps, leading to better outcomes for students and stakeholders.”

 

The Skills Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE) project, supported by the World Bank, achieved milestones during its seven-year implementation. By fostering industry partnerships, the project aimed to enhance apprenticeship opportunities and collaboration across sectors. Capacity-building programs for ITI trainers were introduced to improve teaching methodologies and learning outcomes.

 

The initiative also recorded a 35% compliance rate in tracking on-the-job training (OJT). Furthermore, 15 States successfully reduced trainer vacancies, and nine States developed career progression policies for trainers, guided by a model policy prepared by the Directorate General of Training (DGT).

 

Shri Tiwari acknowledged the efforts of State governments in strengthening it is and mentioned that new schemes under discussion build upon STRIVE’s outcomes. “The implementation of STRIVE has identified areas for further improvement. The recent budget announcement for the revival of it is through the hub-and-spoke model is a step in the right direction,” he said.

 

The workshop brought together Government officials, ITI representatives, industry leaders, and experts to review STRIVE’s achievements and discuss future strategies for skill development. A compendium showcasing the initiative’s practices and achievements was launched at the event.

 

State Government representatives shared their experiences with implementing STRIVE, discussing innovative practices and challenges. Officials from Odisha highlighted the demand for candidates with NTC+ certifications, while representatives from Karnataka stressed the importance of addressing cultural barriers to enhance women’s participation in vocational training.

 

The STRIVE initiative has laid the groundwork for strengthening India’s vocational training ecosystem. By fostering collaboration between Government bodies, industries, and training institutions, it has contributed to building a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of an evolving industrial landscape.

***

PSF/DK/THR

(Release ID: 2084385) Visitor Counter : 973