GOVERNMENT IS COMMITTED TO BUILDING A STRONG ECOSYSTEM FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND EMPLOYMENT IN THE STATE: CM
Panaji: March 18, 2026
The Government of Goa organised Campus to Career 2026, an Academic-Industry Meet to strengthen collaboration between educational institutions and industry. The aim is to create better pathways for internships, apprenticeships, and employment for domiciled Goan youth. The programme was held in Panaji and organised in collaboration with the Directorate of Higher Education, GSHEC, GIDC, and DITC.
The event brought together academic leaders, industry representatives, and government officials to deliberate on bridging the gap between education and employment through a more structured and outcome-driven approach. The programme also included the felicitation of beneficiaries under the Ramp Programme, along with the distribution of certificates of appreciation in recognition of their achievements.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said that the Government is committed to building a strong ecosystem for skill development and employment in the State. He highlighted that the apprenticeship programme launched through a Government portal is expanding opportunities for youth to gain practical industry experience, while emphasising the importance of work culture in preparing students to be industry-ready. CM Dr. Sawant also appreciated the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, noting that such initiatives align with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and contribute to Goa’s roadmap towards Viksit Goa 2037. “Preparing Students to be Industry-Ready is Key to Goa’s Growth,” Chief Minister added.
CM further emphasised that career counselling should begin at an early stage within educational institutions, with teachers playing a crucial role in guiding students towards suitable career paths. He noted that Goans are increasingly making their presence felt across diverse sectors through GHRDC-led efforts, including areas where representation was previously limited. Referring to the Prime Minister’s Internship Programme, he also highlighted the role of EDC and EDII in promoting entrepreneurship and skill-based training, while underlining the importance of continuous skilling to address emerging challenges such as Artificial Intelligence.
The programme also highlighted forward-looking initiatives such as Converge 2.0, encouraging industries to develop sector-specific clusters and promote knowledge-based industries in the State. The Government reiterated its commitment to supporting industrial growth and fostering a conducive investment ecosystem, while appreciating the role of IDC and IPB in attracting investments and strengthening Goa’s industrial landscape.
The programme was attended by Secretary (Education), IAS Shri Prasad Lolyekar; Secretary (Industries), IAS Shri Santosh Sukhadeve; Secretary to Chief Minister & Director, DITC, IAS Shri Ashvin Chandru; Managing Director, GIDC, IAS Shri Pravimal Abhishek; Director of Higher Education, Shri Bhushan Savoikar; Programme Director, Directorate of Higher Education, Dr. Niyan Marchon; President, GSIA, Shri Pradip Da Costa; Vice President, GCCI, Shri Yatin Kakodkar, along with senior officials, industry representatives and other stakeholders.
DI/INF/AXP/SAG/PD/SM/2026/1328