Introduction
In an ambitious move to enhance skill development in the state, the government has announced the modernization of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). New trades will soon be available under this initiative, with teaching set to commence in the next two to three months. This effort aims to transform government ITIs into Advanced Technology Centers (ATCs), providing state-of-the-art training to thousands of students annually.
Transforming ITIs into Advanced Technology Centers
The state government has embarked on a comprehensive project to upgrade ITIs, aiming to train around 100,000 individuals each year. This initiative, with an estimated budget of ₹2,700 crore, includes various courses, infrastructure improvements, and human resources development. Tata Technologies has partnered with the government to bring these plans to fruition. The modernization efforts have already begun, with the foundation stone for the ATC at Mallepalli ITI laid by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. The center is expected to be operational within three months.
Skill Development for Employment Security
Tata Technologies has a proven track record in transforming ITIs in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka into advanced skill training centers. The introduction of Industry 4.0 courses, including long-term and short-term programs, and bridge courses to meet industrial skill demands, is part of this initiative. Some of the cutting-edge courses include:
- Product Design Development
- Advanced Manufacturing
- IoT Digital Instrumentation
- Process Control Automation
- Additive Manufacturing
- Modern Automotive Maintenance
- Prototyping Industrial Robotics
- AI-Based Virtual Welding and Painting
Graduates of these National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) recognized courses are expected to have excellent employment opportunities with leading companies.
Implementation Phases
Initially, the government planned to convert 65 ITIs into ATCs. However, due to infrastructural and logistical challenges, the first phase will see 25 ITIs upgraded. The remaining ITIs will be transformed in subsequent phases. In the first phase, Hyderabad will have the highest number of ATCs, with five centers becoming operational.
Addressing Staff Shortages
To ensure the success of these new ATCs, the Employment Generation Department estimates that each center will require an additional 12 to 15 assistant technical officers to teach the modern courses. Currently, about half of the teaching positions in government ITIs are vacant. To bridge this gap, the government plans to recruit qualified personnel on a contractual basis, with Tata Technologies assisting in the selection process.
Conclusion
The modernization of ITIs into Advanced Technology Centers marks a significant step towards enhancing skill development and employment opportunities in the state. With cutting-edge courses and industry partnerships, these centers are poised to provide the necessary training to meet the evolving demands of the workforce. The phased implementation ensures a focused approach, addressing infrastructural challenges and staff shortages effectively. This initiative not only aims to equip students with modern skills but also to secure their future employment in a rapidly changing industrial landscape.