OKCL, Japan’s NITKAL partner to enhance Japanese language skills, global employability

Odisha Knowledge Corporation Limited (OKCL) and Japan-based NITKAL Enterprises Services Private Limited (NITKAL) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on Japanese language education, workforce development and international employment opportunities, marking a significant step towards strengthening Odisha’s global skilling ecosystem.

The MoU was signed by OKCL Managing Director Dr Manoranjan Puthal and NITKAL President Jaysree Mohanta in the presence of senior officials of OKCL.

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Under the partnership, the two organisations will jointly promote Japanese language training aligned with the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), establish Japanese Language Learning Centres across Odisha, and develop industry-specific skill programmes to prepare youth for employment in Japan.

The collaboration also envisages overseas placement facilitation, digital learning initiatives, SAP talent development programmes, Centres of Excellence in emerging technologies, and knowledge exchange between Indian and Japanese institutions.

The initiative is designed to build a skilled workforce for sectors witnessing growing demand in Japan, including healthcare, elderly care, hospitality, transportation, manufacturing, information technology, food processing and smart agriculture.

As the first milestone under the partnership, ten senior managers of OKCL have successfully completed Basic Japanese Language training conducted by NITKAL, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to building institutional capacity and fostering stronger engagement with Japanese industries.

The collaboration was coordinated by OKCL Senior Manager Niladri Bihari Ray, who played a key role in conceptualising and facilitating the initiative.

Officials said the partnership is expected to expand global employment opportunities for Odisha’s youth, reinforce India-Japan workforce cooperation, and position the state as a leading centre for Japanese language education and internationally aligned skill development.