New Delhi, July 05, 2024.

Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), emphasized the pivotal role of digital infrastructure and collaborative learning models during his address at the SKILLS Bridge Masterclass Series today. It focuses onPromoting Lifelong Learning (LLL) for the Future of Work and the webinar’s topic was— AI-Powered Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) for a Future Ready Workforce. It wasjointly organized by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), International Labour Organization (ILO), World Bank and UNESCO. The webinar attracted over 120 delegates and 3000 participants with the discussion centered on leveraging digital infrastructure, work-based learning models, and industry-academia partnerships to bolster the skills and lifelong learning ecosystem.

The webinar was attended by key dignitaries including Dr. HajaRamatulaiWurie – Hon’ble Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Sierra Leone;Mr. Ruben Sargsyan, Hon’ble Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Armenia; Mr. Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship; Mr. Ravi Peiris - OIC, ILO Decent Work Team for South Asia and Country Office for India; Dr. BorheneChakron- Director of Policies and Lifelong Learning, UNESCO; Ms. Debjani Ghosh, President, NASSCOM, India; Ms. Shabnam Sinha, Lead Education Specialist, World Bank; Dr. Ashwani Aggarwal, Workgroup Leader (Skills and Lifelong Learning Policy, Systems and Digitalization), ILO Geneva; Mr. Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International and Ms. Shreshtha Gupta, CTO, NSDC & NSDC International.

During his address, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, said, "We are witnessing the dawn of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where artificial intelligence, machine learning, and automation are redefining industries. In this scenario, the skills we acquire today may become obsolete tomorrow. Hence, embracing Lifelong Learning is not just only imperative but an absolute necessity today. Aligned with this vision, the Government of India is committed to creating an ecosystem that promotes lifelong learning.”

“At the heart of this transformation lies the SkillIndiaDigital Hub (SIDH), which is a leading example of how digital public infrastructure can revolutionize learning and skill development. SIDH is more than just a platform; it is a trusted and transparent ecosystem that converges diverse elements of our vast skilling landscape." He added.

Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, CEO, NSDC and MD, NSDC International and Ms. Shreshtha Gupta, CTO, NSDC and NSDC International showcased the SIDH platform to the international delegates and the audience. The platform was praised as the demonstration highlighted SIDH's role in streamlining skills training with features like swift registration and AI-powered job exchanges, aiming to bridge the skill gap and empower individuals with future-ready skills.

During a panel discussion on expanding the adoption of Skill India Digital Hub, Dr. HajaRamatulaiWurie, Hon’ble Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Government of Sierra Leone said, “Sierra Leone's youth have immense potential for digital learning, but limited smartphone penetration, internet connectivity, electricity, and digital infrastructure hinder progress. Leveraging centers of excellence, robust curricula, and sector mapping can help us navigate this evolving landscape. Digital platforms like the Skill India Digital Hub exemplify how to converge accessibility, reach, and education in a dynamic environment.”

Shri Ruben Sargsyan, Hon'ble Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Government of Armeniafurther added,we are committed to creating an effective labor market mechanism to foster economic growth, inclusivity, and better public services. By collaborating with ministries and the private sector, we aim to revitalize industries and provide youth with opportunities to upskill in entrepreneurship and new-age skills. Therefore, digital platforms are crucial for enhancing training, job placements, and an outcome-driven finance system, paving the way for an inclusive and sustainable future.

Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, emphasized on the crucial role of digital platforms in scalable and sustainable skill enhancement. He highlighted the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) as a flagship initiative, revolutionizing skill development through its inclusive, technology-driven approach.

The discussion uncovered the numerous possibilities and challenges that accompany digital transformation, with a special focus on Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH), a leading example of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) revolutionizing learning and skill development. The webinar featured illuminating case studies from India, showcasing innovative approaches to leveraging digital technologies for enhancing skilling, reskilling, and upskilling initiatives. These insights will help in adapting to the dynamic job market and addressing global challenges effectively.

During the webinar, participants delved into the innovative applications of digital technology within Skills and Lifelong Learning systems and programmes. Additionally, the discussionaimed to foster a comprehensive understanding of how digital advancements can revolutionize learning and skill development, globally. India's imperative role in Global Skills Transformation was highlighted during the session, emphasizing the country's pioneering efforts in this domain. The Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) was showcased as a scalable model, illustrating sustainable skill enhancement crucial for inclusive growth.