Bengal to rope in Samsung, Berger Paints for skill training

Kolkata, June 20 (IANS) The West Bengal government is set to rope in global brands like Samsung and domestic companies like CESC and Berger Paints to train young men and women in latest skills for quality jobs, a minister said here Friday.

"West Bengal is known for its rich pool of superior intellect. The state government wants to transform our intellectual wealth into top class skill resources," Technical Education and Training Minister Ujjal Biswas said at the CII Eastern Region-organised Skill Conclave.

Skill training has been launched in 62 vocational training centres with technical assistance from Siemens and plus-two students are receiving training with assured opportunities for internships and jobs, the minister said.

"A skill programme on hospitality has been initiated at Kalimpong (in northern West Bengal's Darjeeling district). About 770 trainees are placed in well-known restaurant chains like Cafe Coffee Day outlets with reasonable wages and service benefits," he said.

As part of its mission to enhance employability and produce quality workforce, the state government will work closely with National Skill Development Corporation for job-linked programmes, Biswas added.