In a significant shift across the state, young women from far-flung places of Odisha are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and carving global careers for themselves—thanks to the initiative of the Skilled-in-Odisha initiative by the state government and its flagship institution, the World Skill Center.
“I had never imagined that one day I would work in Dubai. The World Skill Centre here helped me to believe in myself and gave me the skills to succeed,” says Anjulata Negi, a determined young woman from Bargarh district who redefined her life through training and resilience.
Anjulata, who lost her father in childhood, took the responsibility of raising her siblings. She began her journey at ITI Bheden in the Electrician trade, followed by advanced training in Mechanical & Electrical Services at WSC, Bhubaneswar. Today, she is employed with EFS Facilities Services, Dubai, a leading international facility management company, earning an annual package of Rs 6.15 lakh.
Priti Sahoo, from the Keonjhar district, faced a similar early personal loss. With limited financial resources and a homemaker mother, she pursued a course in Beauty and Wellness at WSC. Her passion and determination earned her an employment in a London-based cruise company, with a remarkable package of ₹20.16 lakh per annum.
These stories are part of a growing movement. Afreen Begum, from Ganjam district, fought economic hardship to complete ITI and specialized in Vertical Transportation at WSC. She now works with Johnson’s Lift Company, Chennai, earning Rs 2.64 lakh annually, fulfilling her father’s dream.
Jasmin Kandpan from Koraput, joined WSC to follow her aspirations in the fashion and grooming industry. Now she is working as a Salon Manager at Looks Salon. She earns ₹4.2 lakh per year and credits WSC for broadening her vision and connecting her to global opportunities.
Over the past four years, five graduating batches from WSC have achieved 100% placement, with students being recruited by multinational companies, international cruise liners, and top Indian firms.
The World Skill Center, a state-of-the-art institution under the Odisha Skill Development Authority, offers world-class training through its School of Engineering and School of Services, covering seven high-demand skill programs. Women’s enrollment has consistently grown from the first to the seventh batch, signaling rising awareness, ambition, and confidence among Odisha’s young women.
Students at WSC not only gain technical know-how but also crucial life skills — like communication, professionalism, and adaptability — making them fully prepared for modern workplaces and leadership roles. The curriculum, benchmarked to international standards, ensures graduates are industry ready.
The journeys of Anjulata, Priti, Afreen, Jasmin, and hundreds of others now stand as beacons of possibility for girls across India.
By enabling these young women to rise from remote regions to global platforms, Odisha is setting a national precedent in skill-based empowerment, claimed WSC officials.