Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, emphasized the need for the Odisha government to focus on skill development initiatives for tribal students during a meeting with officials from the SC and ST Development department. He urged officials to prioritize vocational courses to enhance livelihood opportunities for youth from tribal communities.

Chairing a review meeting to assess the department’s ongoing programs, Minister Oram proposed the upgrading of senior secondary schools to degree colleges. This strategic move aims to enable tribal students to pursue higher education, equipping them to compete in career-oriented examinations alongside their peers from other backgrounds.

“Skill development is crucial for empowering tribal youths and integrating them into the mainstream workforce,” stated Minister Oram. He stressed the importance of vocational training in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and hospitality to enhance employability and economic self-sufficiency among tribal communities.

The initiative aligns with the government’s broader efforts to promote inclusive growth and development among marginalized groups. By expanding educational opportunities and vocational training facilities, the Odisha government aims to bridge the skill gap and facilitate sustainable livelihoods for tribal youths.

Minister Oram also underscored the significance of collaborative efforts between the central and state governments, as well as private sector participation, to scale up skill development initiatives effectively. He urged officials to leverage existing schemes and resources to maximize the impact of vocational education programs across tribal regions in Odisha.

In response to the Minister’s directives, officials pledged to enhance the implementation of vocational courses and explore partnerships with educational institutions and industry stakeholders. They highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure and curriculum in senior secondary schools, laying the groundwork for their transformation into degree colleges.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to accelerate efforts towards skill enhancement and educational empowerment for tribal students in Odisha. Minister Oram expressed optimism that these initiatives would contribute to socio-economic upliftment and holistic development within tribal communities.

Moving forward, the Odisha government is poised to intensify its focus on vocational training and educational reforms, guided by the principles of equity, inclusivity, and sustainable development. The integration of vocational skills with formal education is expected to pave the way for a brighter future for tribal youths, enabling them to realize their full potential in a competitive global landscape.