Visakhapatnam: In a recent address at the APAC National Skill Conclave, IAS Dr Vinod Kumar V, the then MD & CEO of AP State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC), Government of Andhra Pradesh, and presently the District Collector of Anantapur, talked about the state’s strong focus on developing skills and industries.
Dr Kumar explained how Andhra Pradesh is committed to supporting flourishing industries. The government has put in place a comprehensive plan for industry infrastructure which includes ports, airports, and roads. This plan aims to improve business operations and lower risks for industries and partners. Additionally, there is a calculated emphasis on both traditional and futuristic sectors which aligns with the state’s goal of sustained economic growth.
Addressing the unemployment rate, which is currently 15.7% for individuals aged 15 to 29, Dr Vinod explained that this is influenced by the state’s thriving higher education sector, which produces many educated young people searching for jobs.
Even with this challenge, young people in Andhra Pradesh show impressive skill in future areas and are highly employable, as shown by several studies. Dr Kumar pointed out that the state ranks first in future skills and third in highly employable resources.
Andhra Pradesh has taken steps to bridge the gap between education and job opportunities under the leadership of the Department of Skill Development and Training. These initiatives offer short-term certifications and vocational training to equip students with the skills needed by industries.
Dr Kumar laid out the future goals of Andhra Pradesh and said, “In line with Viksit Bharat, the state government has envisioned where we want to reach by 2047. We want to intervene in industry training, vocational education, digital intervention, higher education, entrepreneurship and innovation. The four to five key indicators that Niti Aayog and Viksit Bharat talks about, we want to top them and create a brand which is called Andhra Pradesh, where cascading skills paradigm exist.”
Andhra Pradesh’s skill development departments and agencies have a well-organised structure that focuses on collaboration and efficiency. They’ve trained over 13.5 lakh students and helped 2.5 lakh individuals find placements since 2015, Dr Kumar informed.
He also discussed the department’s plans to create a skill university and skill colleges for various skill levels and mentioned methods such as customised training for industries and digital monitoring of skill programs.
To further enhance skill development opportunities, Andhra Pradesh is actively engaging with private players and international entities. As a result, Dr Kumar extended an invitation for partnerships and collaborations to address industry needs and shape policies for a skilled workforce.
