Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jul 16: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Wednesday announced that students who complete Class 10 along with a two-year Industrial Training Institute (ITI) course will be considered equivalent to those who have passed the Class 12 board examination.
Announcing major reforms in ITI education at a state-level function marking World Youth Skills Day in Panaji, Sawant said the government would issue Goa Board equivalency certificates to eligible students, improving their opportunities for higher education and employment.
Under the new policy, students completing Class 10 and a two-year ITI course will receive a Goa Board equivalency certificate, placing them on par with Class 12 pass-outs.
The state government has also facilitated collaborations between ITIs and colleges to enable students pursuing vocational education to continue with higher studies.
"The reforms are aimed at ensuring that ITI students receive the same academic recognition as those in the conventional education stream while enhancing their employability," the chief minister said.
Sawant said skill development has emerged as a key pillar in India's journey towards becoming a global hub for talent and innovation. He noted that initiatives such as the Skill India Mission, the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and the National Education Policy 2020 are equipping young people with industry-relevant skills and preparing them for emerging employment opportunities.
Emphasising the need for greater investment in youth, the chief minister said empowering young people through education, skills and innovation was essential to realise the vision of a "Viksit Bharat".
Sawant also congratulated Goa's teachers and students for their achievements at the national level, including award-winning teachers and those who excelled in national-level examinations.
He further lauded Goan athletes who won gold medals at the World Yogasana Championship.
Addressing the issue of contract teachers, Sawant assured that those who have completed 10 years of service would be given priority for regularisation.