PANAJI: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that a one-year ITI certificate will now be considered equivalent to Class 10 for government job eligibility, even for those who have not passed Class 10 exams. From next year, a two-year ITI certification will be deemed equivalent to Class 12, eliminating the requirement for two language examinations. ITI graduates will also have the option to directly enrol in BA, B.Com, and other degree programs.
Necessary syllabus modifications will be made, and circulars will be issued within the year, he said at the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Centre of Excellence Project under TATA Technologies.
The Chief Minister emphasized that companies hiring apprentices should retain them only if they intend to offer permanent roles. "Otherwise, let them go so they can find better opportunities. Don’t keep them for three to four years on a minimal stipend," he asserted.
Sawant added that Goa has become the first state to achieve 100% placement in government departments under the apprenticeship scheme. This move has fostered a strong work culture and helped candidates excel in both the private and public sectors.
Speaking on the state's vision for ITIs, Secretary of Education, Prasad Lolayekar, stated that under the National Education Policy, the goal is to achieve 100% placement or vertical mobility for ITI students. "Quality education with a strong skill component should start after Class 10," he said.
To enhance skill-based education, TATA Technologies, under its CSR initiative, has allocated Rs 165 crore to upgrade five ITIs in Goa: Bicholim, Kakoda, Mapusa, Farmagudi, and Vasco. The state government will invest an additional Rs 400 crore to further improve vocational training standards. The curriculum and infrastructure will be designed by TATA technologies.