Bhubaneswar: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Skill Development and Technical Education and Commerce and Transport departments Tuesday collaborated with the GMR Aero Academy (GMRAA) to extend aviation-related skilling to youths of Odisha. Accordingly, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Directorate of Aviation, the Directorate of Skill Development-cum-Employment with GMR. This ceremony was graced by Commerce and Transport Minister Tukuni Sahu and Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Pritiranjan Gharai, including several other dignitaries. T
The MoU with Skill Development and Technical Education department will provide a pathway for skilling of more than 300 Odia youths in specialised courses like Certification in Airport Operations (CAO), Basic Fire Fighters Course (BFFC), and Air Cargo Management Executive (ACME). Minister Sahu, in her speech, said that under the leadership of the Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and 5T framework, Odisha is witnessing a transformation in the aviation sector. “This transformation is not only creating employment opportunities for the youth but also contributing to the realisation of a Nutan Odisha,” she added. Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Pritiranjan Gharai underscored the significance of the partnership with GMRAA on this historic occasion, stating that it will enhance the value proposition.
Appreciating the efforts of Government, GMRAA Head and Vice President Air Marshal K Anantharaman emphasised the transformative impact of this initiative stating, “Considering the scope of expansion of Aviation sector, the skill development initiative would be a game-changer, creating good opportunities for youth in the airport sector. The training at GMRAA will adhere to world standards, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to contribute to the ever-growing aviation industry.”
Principal Secretary Usha Padhee said in the new age economy, aviation is going to play a crucial role. Aviation jobs are very inspirational. Providing this niche opportunity to our youth would help them to transform their lives, she added. Similarly, the MoU with Commerce and Transport department through Biju Patnaik Aviation Centre (BPAC) will open opportunities for Odia youths to up-skill themselves in aviation-focused courses, equipping them with credentials and expertise for diverse roles across the aviation landscape. The MoUs were executed under overarching umbrella of BPAC at Birasal, reinforcing the Skilled in Odisha brand.
ARINDAM GANGULY, OP