Empowering Women in Odisha: How Skill Development is Changing Lives

Transformative Skill Development in Odisha

By Arindam Ganguly

Bhubaneswar: In a region where issues of women's safety and harassment are prevalent, the emergence of young women through skill development is both impactful and motivating.

The Skilled-in-Odisha program, along with the World Skill Center (WSC) in Bhubaneswar, is becoming a secure and empowering environment for change. Young women from Odisha's remote areas are achieving global success, thanks to the initiatives and training provided by WSC.

Anjulata Negi, a resilient young woman from Bargarh district, shared, “I never thought I would work in Dubai one day. WSC instilled confidence in me and equipped me with the skills I needed to thrive.” After losing her father at a young age, she took on the responsibility of her siblings. Starting her journey at ITI Bheden in the Electrician trade, she later pursued advanced training in Mechanical & Electrical Services at WSC. Today, she is employed by EFS Facilities Services in Dubai, earning an impressive annual salary of Rs 6.15 lakh.

Similarly, Priti Sahoo from Keonjhar faced early personal challenges. With limited financial means and a mother who was a homemaker, she enrolled in a Beauty and Wellness course at WSC. Her dedication led her to secure a position with a London-based cruise company, earning a remarkable Rs 20.16 lakh per year.

Afreen Begum from Ganjam overcame economic difficulties to complete her ITI and specialized in Vertical Transportation at WSC. She now works with Johnsons Lift Company in Chennai, earning Rs 2.64 lakh annually, fulfilling her father's aspirations.

Jasmin Kandpan from Koraput pursued her dreams in the fashion and grooming sector at WSC. Currently, she serves as a salon manager at Looks Salon, earning Rs 4.2 lakh per year, and attributes her success to the opportunities provided by WSC.

In the last four years, WSC has achieved a remarkable 100% placement rate for its five graduating batches, with students being hired by multinational corporations, international cruise lines, and leading Indian companies. As a premier institution under the Odisha Skill Development Authority, WSC offers top-notch training through its School of Engineering and School of Services, covering seven in-demand skill programs.

The inspiring journeys of Anjulata, Priti, Afreen, Jasmin, and many others serve as symbols of hope for girls across India. By empowering these young women to transition from remote areas to global platforms, Odisha is establishing a national benchmark in skill-based empowerment.