Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched the ambitious ‘Skill Uday Tongai’ programme aimed at empowering 80,000 students across the state. The initiative, which marks a significant step towards enhancing the employability of the youth, focuses on providing valuable skills that align with both regional and national job market demands. CM Saha inaugurated several educational reforms alongside this programme to further elevate the state’s education and skill development infrastructure.
The ‘Skill Uday Tongai’ initiative was introduced as a part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to promote skill-based education and bridge the gap between traditional academic qualifications and the skills required in the workforce. The program is designed to offer students in Tripura the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various sectors, from digital technologies and engineering to hospitality and healthcare.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Minister Saha emphasized the importance of preparing the youth for the rapidly evolving global economy. He acknowledged the critical role that skill development plays in reducing unemployment and providing students with more career choices. Saha also mentioned that the government would focus on enhancing the skillset of students through both short-term and long-term vocational training courses, keeping in mind the evolving needs of industries in the state and beyond.
The ‘Skill Uday Tongai’ programme is expected to be rolled out across various districts of Tripura, reaching not only urban centers but also remote areas, ensuring that every student has equal access to quality skill development opportunities. The programme will be in collaboration with educational institutions, vocational training centers, and industries. The government has promised to equip the training centers with state-of-the-art facilities, including expert trainers and industry-level certifications, making the skill development process robust and comprehensive.
Alongside the ‘Skill Uday Tongai’ initiative, CM Saha also unveiled several other educational projects aimed at improving access to quality education for students in Tripura. These initiatives include infrastructural upgrades to schools and colleges, the introduction of digital learning tools, and scholarships for deserving students. The government also plans to partner with various private sector organizations and educational bodies to bring in specialized training programs that meet the requirements of emerging job sectors.
One of the key features of the programme is its emphasis on creating a multi-sector skill ecosystem. Students will not only be trained in traditional fields such as agriculture and manufacturing but also in new-age sectors like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and renewable energy. This vision is aligned with the growing demand for tech-savvy professionals who can contribute to the digital and green economy, two key pillars for future job creation.
In addition to traditional skill development, the government has made provisions for soft skills training, which will help students build communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. These skills are increasingly in demand by employers, who value well-rounded individuals who can adapt to changing workplace dynamics. By incorporating soft skills into the curriculum, the programme aims to ensure that students are not just technically proficient but also emotionally intelligent and ready for the challenges of the professional world.
The Chief Minister also took this opportunity to urge parents and teachers to support their students in pursuing vocational and skill-based education. He acknowledged that societal perceptions about vocational courses often limit the potential of students, especially in rural areas. With the launch of ‘Skill Uday Tongai,’ the government hopes to change this mindset and position skill development as a viable and rewarding career path for students.
As the programme begins to take shape, experts in the field of education and skill development have lauded the government’s initiative, stating that it will significantly contribute to improving the overall standard of education in the state. They also emphasized that the success of the programme will depend on its effective implementation, including ensuring that the courses remain relevant to industry needs and that there are ample job opportunities for graduates.
The launch of ‘Skill Uday Tongai’ is a significant milestone for Tripura as it looks to equip its youth with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly competitive and globalized economy. The programme’s success could also serve as a model for other states looking to enhance their educational and vocational training systems, ultimately empowering young people to build successful careers and contribute to the state’s growth.
