Project ODISERV launched for Odisha’s graduates

Sambalpur: In a significant step towards enhancing employment prospects for young graduates in Odisha, union minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan launched Project ODISERV here on Friday.

The initiative was launched in collaboration with Bajaj Finserv and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), which aims to prepare students for the financial services sector.

During the launch event at Gangadhar Meher University in Sambalpur, Pradhan highlighted the transformative impact of Project ODISERV on the youth. He announced that 1,100 students in Odisha have already undergone training, with several securing job offers.

Sanjiv Bajaj, chairman & managing director of Bajaj Finserv, emphasised the critical role of skilling in harnessing India’s demographic dividend. The Certificate Programme for Banking Finance & Insurance (CPBFI) under Project ODISERV is designed to equip graduates with essential skills needed in the banking, finance and insurance industries.

Project ODISERV is set to launch the CPBFI programme in 60 colleges across 11 cities and 10 districts in Odisha. The initiative, developed in collaboration with industry experts, will not only enhance students’ academic knowledge but also ensure they excel in the rapidly evolving financial sector.

The partnership between NSDC and Bajaj Finserv aims to introduce the CPBFI programme in 22 states, covering over 400 colleges, with a focus on building the capabilities of 20,000 candidates. The 100-hour programme incorporates the latest industry trends and technological advancements, providing students with practical insights into industry best practices.