Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani said the core objective of technical education and vocational training in Himachal Pradesh was to transform youth from job seekers into job creators. Chairing a review meeting of the Technical Education Department, he said the state government was making multi-dimensional efforts to establish Himachal as a leading hub of technical education and skill development.
Dharmani said the government was actively working to create a strong ecosystem for micro and small enterprises as well as startups. To encourage entrepreneurship among trainees of technical institutions, around 120 experts from the Industries Department would provide specialised mentorship and guidance to students. He added that artificial intelligence and information technology-based learning modules were also being introduced to equip trainees with soft skills and future-ready capabilities.
Highlighting the changing employment landscape, the minister said subjects such as horticulture, natural farming and dairy technology were being incorporated into technical institutions in view of the growing demand for domain experts in these sectors. To strengthen practical exposure and field-based learning, coordination would also be established with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and agricultural colleges.
Dharmani said Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state were playing a key role in developing a skilled workforce while also contributing to local problem-solving initiatives. Citing an example, he said trainees of ITI Mandi had undertaken commendable work in resolving street lighting issues in the Mandi MC area. Under an MoU between the Municipal Corporation and ITI Mandi, 496 street lights were installed in a phased manner, significantly improving the local lighting infrastructure.
The Minister further said the state government was planning to establish a skill academy and a digital university to expand opportunities for the youth. he added that grading of technical institutions was also being undertaken to improve quality standards. he directed the Himachal Pradesh Technical Education Board to work towards conducting online examinations for recruitment competitions.
