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By Chef Vivek Saggar, Vice President – Skill Competitions & Industry Connect, Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council
IndiaSkills, a national-level competition, has emerged as a vital platform to promote vocational skills excellence and provide young professionals with an opportunity to showcase their talents. Rooted in the WorldSkills movement, IndiaSkills aims to identify and nurture skilled talent across various sectors, raising awareness about the significance of vocational skills in India’s economic development. As the Vice President of Skill Competitions & Industry Connect at the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of IndiaSkills competitions on the lives of participants and the skill ecosystem of the country.
The primary objective of IndiaSkills competitions is to unearth and celebrate skilled talent in India. By doing so, it strives to inculcate a sense of pride in vocational skills and inspire the youth to pursue careers in these areas. The competition acts as a catalyst for change, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in vocational education and training.
Skill Areas: IndiaSkills competitions encompass a diverse array of vocational skill areas, reflecting the vast range of trades and technologies present in the country. From construction and building technology to information technology, from culinary arts to fashion and clothing technology, and from automobile technology to beauty therapy, participants have an extensive selection of skill areas to choose from. This inclusivity ensures that the competitions cater to the specific needs and strengths of the participants, making it a truly representative platform.
Participants: The competitors in IndiaSkills competitions represent a cross-section of talented young professionals and students from different states and regions of India. They have excelled in their respective skill areas and undergo a rigorous selection process at the state and national levels to qualify for the competition. This selection process ensures that only the best of the best compete at the national level, raising the overall standards of the competition and showcasing the finest vocational talent.
Competition Format: The competition format closely mirrors that of the esteemed WorldSkills competitions. Participants engage in hands-on tasks or projects within defined time frames. Their performances are evaluated by expert judges based on predefined criteria such as technical proficiency, quality of work, problem-solving ability, and adherence to industry standards. This evaluation process ensures fairness and objectivity, providing participants with constructive feedback to improve their skills further.
Training and Skill Development: Preparation for IndiaSkills competitions is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Participants receive comprehensive training and guidance from industry experts, trainers, and educational institutions. These training programs equip participants with the latest knowledge, techniques, and best practices, elevating their skills to the highest level. The emphasis on training fosters a growth mindset and promotes a culture of skill development in the participants.
Recognition and Awards: IndiaSkills competitions offer more than just a platform for participants to showcase their talents. Winners and top performers are duly recognized and rewarded for their hard work and dedication. Medals, certificates, and scholarships are conferred upon the outstanding participants, incentivizing them to strive for excellence and inspiring others to follow suit. Additionally, IndiaSkills competitions serve as a gateway for participants to represent India in international WorldSkills competitions, further elevating their achievements on a global stage.
Skill Development Initiatives: Beyond the competitions, IndiaSkills endeavors to promote skill development and industry collaboration through various initiatives. Partnerships with industry, government, and educational institutions facilitate the identification of industry-relevant skills and the implementation of advanced training methodologies. These efforts bridge the gap between industry requirements and the skills possessed by the workforce, ensuring a more productive and skilled workforce for the country.
IndiaSkills competitions have emerged as a beacon of hope for vocational education and skill development in India. They celebrate the talent and potential of the country’s youth while emphasizing the importance of vocational skills in driving economic growth. Through these competitions, we not only nurture skilled professionals but also foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous learning.
As IndiaSkills continues to evolve and expand its horizons, it will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of vocational education in India and elevating the status of skilled professionals in the country. Together, let us celebrate vocational skills and empower the next generation of skilled workers to lead India towards a brighter and more prosperous future.
