In a landmark move aimed at empowering Punjab’s youth with skill-based education, the World Skill Center of Excellence was inaugurated in Patiala. Situated in front of the MC office, the center has been established under the aegis of Sun Foundation and is poised to provide cutting-edge vocational training to thousands of young individuals, free of cost.
The inauguration was marked by the presence of several key dignitaries, including Aman Arora, Punjab’s Employment Generation Minister; Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha); Kultar Singh Sandhwan, Speaker of the Punjab Assembly; Dr. Balbir Singh, Health Minister; Dharamvira Gandhi, MP Patiala; and Ajit Pal Kohli, MLA Patiala.
A Commitment to Skilling Punjab’s Youth
Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Chairman of Sun Foundation and a driving force behind the initiative, emphasized the center’s role in providing skill development opportunities. “This state-of-the-art facility will train over 1,000 youth annually, equipping them with industry-relevant skills and ensuring job placements,” he stated. Dr. Sahney further elaborated on his long-term vision, stating that Sun Foundation aims to train 10,000 youth annually through its various skill development centers and adopted Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across Punjab.
The center will offer a range of courses, including General Duty Assistant, Assistant Electrician, Assistant Beauty Therapist, BFSI-Bancassurance Relationship Associate, BFSI-Account Assistant, and Domestic Data Entry Operator. These programs are designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that young job seekers receive practical training aligned with modern industry demands.
Bridging Education and Employment
Emphasizing the importance of industry linkages, Dr. Sahney highlighted that the center would not only impart technical knowledge but also ensure that its trainees secure dignified employment. “Our holistic approach integrates hands-on training, mentorship, and job readiness, preparing our youth for a competitive job market,” he added.
Employment Generation Minister Aman Arora commended the initiative, stating that skill development is pivotal to Punjab’s economic progress. “The World Skill Center of Excellence in Patiala will open new employment avenues for our youth, equipping them with modern technological skills and ensuring sustainable job opportunities. The government stands firmly behind such initiatives that contribute to a skilled and empowered Punjab,” he said.
Recognition and Praise
Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan lauded Dr. Sahney’s unwavering commitment to employment generation, calling him the “Employment Man of India.” He acknowledged the transformative impact of the initiative, stating, “This center will play a crucial role in providing world-class training and employment opportunities completely free of cost, which is highly commendable.”
Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh echoed these sentiments, describing the project as a remarkable example of social responsibility. “By investing in skill development, Dr. Sahney is not just training individuals but strengthening Punjab’s workforce and contributing to its economic growth. This Skill Center will be a beacon of hope for thousands of young aspirants,” he remarked.
The World Skill Center of Excellence in Patiala stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts between the government, industry leaders, and social organizations. With a clear focus on empowering Punjab’s youth through skill development, the center is set to become a cornerstone of economic progress and employment generation in the state.
