Punjab’s Technical Education Revolution

Punjab Witnesses Education Revolution in Technical Sector

Massive Surge in ITIs Admissions

Under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government has witnessed a significant increase in admissions to Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state. This surge is attributed to the government’s focused efforts to enhance vocational education and the substantial transformations being implemented in the technical education sector.

In line with the growing industrial demands, the government has increased the number of seats by 25% in Government ITIs, bringing the total number of additional seats to 52,000 by 2025. In the current academic session 2024-25, 93.04% of seats have been filled across 137 Government ITIs.

To make training more industry-relevant, the government has introduced the Dual System of Training (DST) in collaboration with the industry, ensuring that students gain practical experience while pursuing their courses. Following discussions with industry representatives, the Technical Education and Training Department introduced 27 new industry-oriented courses in the 2022-23 academic session, including Agro Processing, Baker and Confectioner, Electroplater, Solar Technician, and Textile Wet Processing Technician.

The department has also upgraded five Government ITIs in Ludhiana, Patiala, Mohali, Sunam, and Manakpur Sharif under the MP-LAD scheme. Additionally, an MOU has been signed with the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (HBCH & RC) for academic cooperation. This partnership will offer internships for Polytechnic and ITI students at the hospital.

The government has successfully attracted industry investments to strengthen and modernize ITIs across the state. A total of 23 Government ITIs have been upgraded under the World Bank-assisted project STRIVE, with an investment of Rs. 12.72 crore for the acquisition of the latest machinery for workshops.

To further enhance technical education, 25 new Government ITIs have been established across the state. In the financial year 2023-24, Rs. 15 crore was allocated for civil works, while Rs. 1 crore was spent on purchasing new machinery. For the 2024-25 financial year, a budget provision of Rs. 15 crore has been made for continued expansion and improvement.

Through these initiatives, the Punjab Government is ensuring that the state’s youth are equipped with the skills necessary for success in the modern workforce, setting the stage for a brighter, more prosperous future.