"Andhra Pradesh Government to Invest ₹100 Crore in Skill Development Infrastructure"

In a strategic move to bolster skill development, the Andhra Pradesh Government is set to invest over ₹100 crore in upgrading infrastructure dedicated to fostering vocational skills. The ambitious initiative will focus on the modernization and rebranding of 83 Government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), 87 polytechnic colleges, and 26 skill colleges, transforming them into industry-cum training centers.

Collaborating with the Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC), the State Government aims to provide industry-relevant training to over 20 million youth in the next fifteen years. This transformative effort includes the establishment of a 'Cascading Ecosystem,' a first-of-its-kind integrated model in the state. The model is designed to address existing shortcomings in skill development programs, offering holistic training aligned with future industry needs.

With 26 skill development colleges and 192 hubs spread across the state, 55 industries have partnered with APSSDC as 'skill spokes' to tailor youth training according to specific industry requirements. S. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Skills Development and Training Department, emphasized the comprehensive approach of the initiative, highlighting its potential to equip the workforce with skills essential for the dynamic industrial landscape.

To further streamline the programs, the state introduces the AP Skills Universe, a centralized digital portal encompassing all skill development-related activities. The platform allows individuals seeking training in various skills or searching for job opportunities to register, providing a seamless connection between job seekers and providers. Suresh Kumar noted that the platform's unique feature enables job providers to register as well, fostering easier communication between seekers and employers.

The overarching goal of all government departments involved in this initiative is to cultivate a future-ready workforce capable of excelling in the evolving industrial landscape, thereby contributing significantly to both the state's and the country's overall growth.

HBL