Kolkata, 12 June (H.S.) : In a major push to strengthen skill development and improve employment prospects for the state's youth, the West Bengal government has unveiled a new roadmap for the modernisation of 51 government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

The announcement was made during a high-level technical support workshop organised by the Department of Technical Education, Training and Skill Development under the PM SETU project. State Technical Education Minister Jagannath Chattopadhyay attended the programme and outlined the government's plans to align vocational training with evolving industry requirements.

Under the initiative, the state has decided to facilitate the adoption of 51 government ITIs by industry partners. According to the minister, the proposed PPP framework will allow private participation of up to 17 per cent in institutional ownership and up to 51 per cent in management and operational activities.

Officials said the collaboration with leading industrial organisations would help upgrade training infrastructure and provide students with access to modern machinery, advanced technologies and hands-on learning opportunities. The move is aimed at bridging the gap between classroom instruction and industry requirements, making trainees more employable upon completion of their courses.

Department officials believe that if successfully implemented, the PPP model will significantly enhance practical training and enable students to gain direct exposure to contemporary industrial practices. The initiative is also expected to improve placement opportunities by producing an industry-ready workforce equipped with relevant technical skills.

Speaking at the workshop, Chattopadhyay said the state government would ensure smooth implementation of the project and remove any obstacles that may arise during its execution.

“If any hurdle or ‘speed breaker’ comes in the way of this initiative, it will be the responsibility of the state government to remove it,” the minister said.

Officials expressed optimism that the programme could open a new chapter in technical and vocational education in West Bengal, while helping create a stronger pipeline of skilled manpower for industry.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh