Bhubaneswar, May 2: Odisha’s construction workers are set to benefit from a new educational initiative, offering them opportunities for formal learning along with their jobs. Under the program, workers will not only be able to continue their studies but also earn a three-year Bachelor’s Vocational degree.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) will soon be signed with a university in Odisha to implement the initiative. The Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) has highlighted the critical role of skilled labor in meeting both domestic and international employment demands.
The Bachelor’s Vocational program is expected to become operational in Odisha soon, with the MoU serving as a key milestone. CIDC plans to officially launch the program in July. With a substantial pool of skilled workers in the state, the initiative aims to provide formal education and degree certification for their expertise, according to P.R. Swaroop, Director General of CIDC.
Construction remains one of India’s largest employment sectors after agriculture, but projects such as roads, bridges, houses, and hospitals have often been affected by a shortage of skilled labor. While the country needs over 12.5 million construction workers, only about half are currently employed. CIDC is therefore prioritizing the enhancement of both the quantity and quality of skilled workers.
The Bachelor’s Vocational program has already seen MoUs signed with seven universities across India. In the past two years, more than 1,900 workers have been awarded three-year vocational degrees, while other workers receive skill training and certification based on their qualifications.
Beyond education, CIDC also recognizes outstanding contributions in the construction sector. Companies, workers, and government employees who excel are honored through the Vishwakarma Awards. This initiative is expected to raise construction quality nationwide while benefiting skilled laborers, marking an important step toward professional development in India’s construction industry.
