Inauguration of the International Conference on Skill Development and TVET
MoU Signed Between SSPU and UNESCO
Pune, April 25:“Government-run skill development schemes lead to positive outcomes for society. Therefore, ministers should proactively introduce new initiatives for the progress of all,” said Dr. Neelam Gorhe, Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council. She was speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of a one-day international conference on “Skill Development and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training)” organized jointly by Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU), UNESCO, and NSDC.
The event was presided over by Dr. S.B. Mujumdar, President of Symbiosis. Also present were r. Friedrich Huebler, Head, UNESCO-UNEVOC, Sonam Wangchuk, Founding Director of HIA Ladakh, Shekhar Singh, Commissioner of PCMC, and Dr. Swati Mujumdar, Pro-Chancellor of SSPU.
An MoU was signed between SSPU and UNESCO for global educational exchange, innovative teaching methods, and capacity building.
Additionally, heartfelt condolences were offered for the tragic incident in Pahalgam.
Dr. Neelam Gorhe emphasized, “To bring women into the mainstream of society, their skills and talents should be given greater opportunities. It is essential to focus on encouraging their abilities rather than their appearance. Efforts must be made to underline their importance in society. Furthermore, for sustainable development, skills in rural areas related to environment, water, and health are critically important.”
Sonam Wangchuk stated, “AI and the Internet have drastically changed the world of education. In earlier times, the learning methods required stronger emphasis on intelligence. Along with practical education, spiritual learning is equally important as it passes from one generation to another. The industry today needs skilled manpower. Although new education methods are excellent, practical implementation is crucial. Universities have become mere sources of information; therefore, there should be a transformation in future education systems. In this advanced era, teachers must rethink and change their roles. In the future, bright heads, skilled hands, and compassionate hearts will be the most important elements. Every college and university must become skill-focused.”
Dr. S.B. Mujumdar commented, “In a youthful nation like India, young people’s talents should be nurtured and employment opportunities should be created accordingly. This way, rather than youth seeking jobs, jobs will seek them. A proper synergy between industries and universities should be established and utilized for national progress. Women empowerment is crucial for the country’s development.”
Dr. Swati Mujumdar added, “Following the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Skill India’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives, our university is taking progressive steps. SSPU has a significant contribution to building a developed India. In line with ‘Empowered Women, Empowered Society’, we are focusing on women’s development. Over the past five years, thousands of women have been trained in future-ready skills. We emphasize providing industries with skilled workers needed in the modern era. Teachers play a crucial role in nation-building, and our university works toward supporting and strengthening them.”
Tim Curtis, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia (New Delhi), shared his message via video, saying, “With the global youth population growing, major employment challenges will arise. Along with women empowerment, there must be a strong focus on their skill development. In the modern era, AI and sustainable development will play key roles.”
