5 Industrial Training Institutes to be upgraded as centres of excellence

Five Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Punjab are all set for a major transformation to emerge as 'skill centres of excellence'.

Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Sahney to contribute Rs 10 crore.

The Department of Technical Education and Industrial Training on Thursday signed an  MoU in this regard with the aim to establish world-class skill centres in Patiala, Jalandhar and Ludhiana, besides other ITIs.

Over 5,000 youth will receive training free of cost at the centres.

The MoU was signed with Rajya Sabha MP Vikramjit Sahney in the presence of Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains. As per the MoU, Dr Sahney will be making a contribution of Rs 10 crore towards the upgrade of the ITIs in Ludhiana, Patiala, Mohali, Sunam and Lalru.

Dr Sahney said the aim was to transform the institutions into centres of excellence by introducing cutting-edge technology and infrastructure. The upgrade includes installation of modern machinery, such as CNC turners, robotic welders and 3D printers, skill development labs, and renovation of buildings.

Additionally, the centres will be linked with local industries, ensuring a robust industry connect for placements and apprenticeships for ITI students.

Dr Sahney said the ITIs would provide 5,000 jobs to youth every year and he was in touch with industries near the institutes. With the help of the Institute Management Committees, there would be a robust industrial connect for placements and apprenticeships. “I am committed to upgrading these ITIs into centres of excellence, which will not only offer top-notch training but also serve as a bridge between skilled youth and the industries that require their expertise," he said.

The Education Minister said the initiative spearheaded by Sahney was remarkable. By introducing cutting-edge technology and industry linkages, the centres would enhance employability of youth and bridge the skill gap in the local industry.