Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant witnessed the signing and exchange of seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) by the Directorate of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (DSDE) at Mahalaxmi, Panaji, aimed at strengthening Goa’s skill development ecosystem and expanding vocational training opportunities.
The agreements focus on enhancing collaboration between government departments, educational institutions and industry partners while introducing new programmes across Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in the state.
Among the key agreements was a tripartite MoU between DSDE, Plan International (India Chapter) and Worship Design for implementing “The Birds and The Bees Talk” Life Skills Programme across 10 government and three private ITIs in Goa. The initiative is expected to equip students with structured life-skills training.
Another MoU was signed between DSDE and Vana Shrubs Pvt. Ltd. for conducting short-term training programmes in mushroom cultivation under the Chief Minister’s Kaushalya Path Scheme. The programme will provide scientific and hands-on training in oyster mushroom cultivation, enabling participants to explore self-employment opportunities while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Five additional MoUs were also exchanged with key government departments to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and expand learning avenues. The collaboration with the Directorate of Education will facilitate Open Day visits to ITIs and outreach programmes for students of Classes IX to XII to create awareness about vocational education pathways.
The agreement with the Directorate of Higher Education will enable dual certification programmes under the Chief Minister’s Kaushalya Path Scheme, allowing students to pursue skill-based training alongside their academic education.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening skill development and improving employability among youth. He said the partnerships will help align training programmes with industry needs while encouraging entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Sawant added that expanding vocational education and introducing innovative training modules across ITIs will play a key role in preparing students for emerging opportunities and building a skilled workforce in Goa.
