Jalpaiguri, July 16, 2024: Recognizing the immense potential of the green economy, SwitchON Foundation launched two significant training programs on World Youth Skills Day. These initiatives aim to empower the youth of North Bengal with the necessary skills to thrive in the emerging green economy, addressing the pressing issue of youth unemployment while fostering a skilled workforce ready to contribute to a sustainable future.
The event was graced by esteemed guests: Shri Rajendra Raj, WBCS (Exe), PD-DRDC, Jalpaiguri, and Mr. Subir Sharma, DPM, Skill Development Department, Jalpaiguri. They shared their expertise on the crucial role of youth in driving the green economy, emphasizing the importance of nurturing and empowering young individuals to become leaders in sustainable development. Around 70 participants, comprising youth from various educational institutions like Polytechnics and ITIs and community youths, especially from the tea garden community and women Self-Help Groups, joined the event, highlighting the significance of engagement in promoting green jobs and sustainable practices.
Two types of training programs were announced at the event. The first is a comprehensive three-day training for local youth and women of the tea garden community, focusing on training providing participants with practical experience in clean energy-based technologies and the marketing of solar products like home lighting systems, solar water heaters, solar water pumps, solar pheromone traps, and solar sprayers. This aim is to empower them to set up their own solar equipment businesses and emerge as local entrepreneurs.
The second is a 45-day free residential training program on solar pumps for ITI and Polytechnic students, aimed at training them as technicians. This program will not only provide hands-on experience but also ensure placement opportunities. Participants will receive certification from the Skill Council for Green Jobs or the Paschim Banga Skill Development Council, enhancing their employability in the green sector.
Mr. Surajit Chakraborty, General Manager of SwitchON Foundation, said, “Our training programs are designed to provide the essential skills and knowledge needed for young individuals to succeed and make meaningful contributions to a sustainable future.”
The event facilitated increased engagement and collaboration between educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and government bodies, ensuring a cohesive approach to promoting green jobs. The interactive sessions allowed attendees to engage directly with government officials, providing a platform for in-depth discussions and valuable insights into government initiatives and support for green job development. One of the key aims was raising awareness among youth about the significance and potential of green jobs, encouraging them to pursue careers that contribute to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
Shri Rajendra Raj, WBCS(Exe), PD-DRDC, Jalpaiguri, said, “Initiatives like these are crucial in preparing our youth, especially women folks, for the challenges and opportunities within the green economy. We commend efforts to equip young individuals with skills that not only secure their futures but also promote sustainable development. We look forward to working with SwitchON to empower local women entrepreneurs as a shared goal for our community.”
The event also featured exhibitions showcasing Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE) products like solar home lights, solar torch lights, solar street lights, solar filament traps, and solar sprayers by local vendors, highlighting innovative solutions in the renewable energy sector. These exhibitions played a crucial role in demonstrating the practical applications and benefits of renewable energy technologies to the youth. By engaging with local DRE vendors, young attendees were exposed to cutting-edge advancements in sustainable energy, inspiring them to consider careers in this vital field.
Mr. Subir Sharma, DPM, Skill Development Department, Jalpaiguri, said, “Education and training programs focused on green jobs can empower our youth to thrive in emerging green sectors.”
Mr. (Name of principal and college), said, “This residential training on solar Product / Technology will equip our students with essential skills in renewable energy, opening up valuable job opportunities for them. It will significantly enhance their career prospects and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly community.”
Media Dossier
Online Articles: NEWS 18 BANGLA | CCN TARAI DOOARS NEWS | UTTARER MON | JALPAIGURI AV NEWS
For media inquiries or further information, please contact Gargi Maitra (8336919233)