Lucknow: Skill training centres in Uttar Pradesh will not only impart subject-specific training but also aid personality development and leadership qualities in students. The UP Skill Development Mission (UPSDM) has introduced a range of co-curricular activities such as yoga, sports, cyber security, and digital literacy for all residential training centres operating under the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana.
New Clubs and Activities
Releasing a co-curricular calendar, the UPSDM has directed all its project implementing agencies (PIAs) to establish six clubs at every skill centre: Cultural Club, Sports and Fitness Club, Digital and IT Club, Literature and Language Club, Environment and Social Awareness Club, and Entrepreneurship and Career Development Club. Each club must include a minimum of five trainees, with compulsory participation of at least two female trainees.
Minister's Statement
Minister for Vocational Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Kapil Dev Aggarwal, said, "Under the released calendar, various national and international days, cultural events, sports competitions, entrepreneurship sessions, digital literacy programs, and career-oriented activities will be organised throughout the year."
Year-Round Calendar
The calendar begins in January with National Youth Day, Republic Day, and career counseling sessions. February will feature cultural festivals and entrepreneurship workshops. March includes Women's Day celebrations and annual award ceremonies, while April will witness programs based on Earth Day, talent hunts, self-introduction competitions, and Ambedkar Jayanti.
Director's Vision
UPSDM Director Pulkit Khare said, "These activities are aimed at making rural youth technically skilled but also at preparing them as confident, articulate, and leadership-oriented individuals suited to the needs of the modern corporate world."
June has been dedicated to the theme of health and wellness. July will comprise group discussions, mock interviews, and public speaking competitions. August will feature Independence Day celebrations, rangoli competitions, and Raksha Bandhan-based cultural events. September will promote Teachers' Day, Hindi Day, and literary activities.
October includes Gandhi Jayanti, cleanliness drives, voluntary labour campaigns, and cyber security workshops. November focuses on Constitution Day, quizzes, and sports competitions. December activities such as English speaking week, digital literacy, and resume writing sessions will prepare youth for employment opportunities.
