With an aim to make semi-educated youths self- dependent, the authorities of the Vir Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla have introduced a skill development programme, said Vice-Chancellor E Saibaba Reddy.
"Mainly rural people stay away from technical institutions, though unemployment is a basic problem for them. To solve such a problem, we have started a skill development programme that can change their lives," said the VC.
The course has been carefully designed so that the trainees can get jobs in the local industries and earn a handsome income, he added.
Sambalpur district Collector Samarth Verma inaugurating the programme expressed hopes that the programme would certain help youths, who are not highly educated, to become self-dependent.
"India is a fast growing country. New industries are coming up. If youths are given requisite training, they can also be part of the economic progress," he said.
He advised all 160 participants to complete the course with all seriousness and prove their efficiency.
Course Coordinator Prof PK Pradhan said candidates would be imparted training in the trades of electrical, wielding, carpentry, computer, TV, Mobile and air conditioner repairing in the first phase.
The participants were also seen quite happy. "After completion of the course, we can enter into a new phase of life to become self-sufficient. We are really happy," said two participants, B Bharati Reddy and Debendra Prasad Nag.
