UWDMA organized a symposium on Skill Development at Optus Hometel, Bhiwadi on 25th Nov 2016, which was presided over by Shri T.C.Saravanabava, Dy. Director General (Apprenticeship Training) from the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. Other esteemed guests represented the Rajasthan State Govt. officials, ITI Bhiwadi, Fenestration industry, Glass Academy Foundation and GIZ, the Indo German Vocational and Educational Training.

The symposium aimed at bridging the gap and removing the disconnect between demand and supply of skilled manpower, to build the new skills and innovative thinking, not only for existing jobs but also jobs that are to be created. Complete support of Rajasthan Govt. has helped create the pilot training program at ITI Bhiwadi with Glass Academy Foundation.

Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship is a Ministry of Government of India, to coordinate all skill development efforts across the country. Mr. Saravanabava was very happy at this endeavor to bring private sector, public sector, ITI and state govt. on a common platform at Bhiwadi to fulfill demands of our industry for trained professionals. Briefed the audience about the Apprentice Program under the National Apprentice Promotion Scheme and its advantages to the Industry. Some of the points:

• Companies having 40 or more workers mandatory to opt up to 10% of their work force.
• Companies with 6 – 40 can also opt for Apprentices
• Stipend during training program – 70% of the minimum wages. 25% or maximum up to Rs. 1,500/- will be reimbursed by the Government.
• Apprentice Trainees need not be covered under ESI and PF as they will come under Central Government.
• Sharing cost of Basic Training through Basic Training Providers.
• Online registration of Companies and Apprentices

Indo-German Vocational & Educational Training advised on how to incorporate the Dual system (theoretical plus hands-on industrial practice) of training at ITI to create a well trained professional and a future leader.

With this successful meeting with the ministry and industry, we have made a formal introduction of UWDMA as an association that can be approached for similar future projects. This awareness has set the foundation for fulfilling vision of UWDMA in the field of training and issues of employability.

Let’s together bring the change we want to see!