New Delhi, Aug 28 (KNN) Urging ministers and representatives from 40 nations to make the most of a global platform aimed of youth displaying their skills across trades, Minister for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey said it is critical for governments and industry to come together to turn skilling into a ladder for economic growth for all countries.

He was addressing a summit of ministers from different countries at Kazan, Russia, where the WorldSkills International Competitions, a biennial event, is underway.

 A 48-member Indian team is participating in the competition played out over six days across trades like namely mobile robotics, prototype modelling, hairdressing, baking, confectionary & patisserie, welding, brick laying, car painting, floristry, etc.

Making a strong case for India as the next skilling hub, Dr. Pandey said, “Currently, 10 million Indian youth enter the workforce every year. Up-skilling and increasing industry interface to provide access to multiple skilling opportunities in a short time frame is critical.”

 India has adopted accelerated modular competency-based programs of 200-600 hours duration aimed at enhancing the employability of youth coming out of these programs. We are also laying emphasis on industry-led apprenticeship programs so youth directly entering the labour market are trained on in-house bridge courses by industry, he added.

He stressed that a fruitful partnership between Government, industry and academia is essential to synergize the skills and zeal of the youth.

Dr Pandey also inaugurated Skill India Pavilion at WorldSkills, Kazan in Russia, showcasing the multicultural experiences of India and unity in diversity which is the beauty of our nation.