Bhubaneswar: The imperative for continuous learning and skilling in a rapidly evolving world was underscored by Mr. Ranjan Bhowmick, Chief Executive Officer of the Skill Development Institute (SDI), on Friday. Speaking at the valedictory function of a five-day ‘Faculty Development Program (FDP) on Innovation and Entrepreneurship’ held at the Institute of Business and Computer Studies (IBCS), a faculty of management sciences at SOA Deemed to be University, Mr. Bhowmick emphasized the critical need to integrate formal education with practical skilling.
As the chief guest for the occasion, Mr. Bhowmick highlighted SDI’s role as an outcome-oriented institution dedicated to empowering youth and enhancing their livelihoods. He proudly stated that SDI runs various short-term courses, boasting an impressive placement rate of approximately 92% for its trainees.
Dr. Namrata Mishra, Chief Executive Officer of Bhubaneswar City Knowledge Innovation Cluster (BCKIC) and the guest of honour, echoed these sentiments, asserting that the time is ripe to equip students for future challenges. She lauded faculty members as “change makers” and observed a significant trend of young researchers embracing entrepreneurship. Dr. Mishra also noted the strong performance of Odisha-based startups.
The comprehensive FDP saw participation from over 50 educators from various institutions across Odisha. Twenty-one experts from diverse fields delivered insightful sessions throughout the program.
The valedictory function was also addressed by several prominent academic figures, including Prof. Bibhuti Bhushan Pradhan, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Registrar of SOA; Prof. Prasanta Kumar Patra, Pro-Vice Chancellor of SOA; Prof. Ayasa Kanta Mohanty, Dean of IBCS; Prof. Jyoti Ranjan Das, Dean (Students’ Welfare); Prof. Manoranjan Dash, Associate Dean, IBCS; and Dr. Neha Gupta, Co-PI of the FDP.