A total of 506 students graduated from the World Skill Center (WSC), Bhubaneswar, during its 7th Graduation Ceremony held on Monday, with Odisha Skill Development & Technical Education and Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain urging the youth to embrace skills as the foundation of future success.

Addressing the graduates as the chief guest, the Minister described the occasion as a celebration of the aspirations, determination and potential of Odisha’s youth. He said the ceremony was not just about receiving certificates but about preparing a future-ready workforce capable of contributing to Odisha, India and the global economy.

“Skill is the new currency for success,” the Minister said, adding that skill development remains a key pillar in achieving the vision of ‘Samruddha Odisha by 2036’ and supporting the national goal of ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047’. He also highlighted the state’s focus on next-generation skills to prepare young people for emerging technologies and future industries.

Of the 506 graduates, 261 are women, accounting for over 51% of the graduating batch, reflecting increasing participation of women in advanced, industry-oriented skill education.

The World Skill Center also reported an impressive 93% placement rate, with graduates securing jobs in leading national and international companies. Notably, eight students have been placed with Dubai-based Al Ghurair, further enhancing the global recognition of the “Skilled-in-Odisha” brand.

During the event, the Minister inaugurated the Spatial AI Lab at the World Skill Center. Established in collaboration with EON Reality (USA) and ITEES (Singapore), the new facility aims to equip students with advanced expertise in Spatial Artificial Intelligence and Geospatial Technologies.

The ceremony was attended by Bhupendra Singh Poonia, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Skill Development & Technical Education Department, Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, CEO of the World Skill Center, senior government officials, industry representatives, faculty members and distinguished guests.