CM Sukhu has announced the establishment of the Global Skills & Digital University in District Chamba, marking a significant step towards promoting skill-based, vocational and industry-oriented higher education in Himachal Pradesh. The decision forms part of the government’s broader reform initiative, ‘Vyavastha Parivartan’, aimed at transforming the education system through digital excellence and structural reforms.
The proposed university will be set up at Mohal Chalera in Tehsil Sihunta of Chamba district. It will focus on enhancing employability, encouraging entrepreneurship and fostering innovation among youth through practical, industry-aligned programmes. The institution will also implement a “learn while earn” model to enable students to gain hands-on experience alongside academic learning.
Offering certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes, the university will follow a credit-based structure aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF). Courses will be delivered through online, blended and experiential learning modes to meet contemporary educational standards.
The academic framework will include Schools of Healthcare & Allied Sciences, Management & Commerce, Information & Communication Technology, Hospitality & Culinary Arts, Engineering & Technology, Apparel & Textiles, Food Processing, Plastics & Petrochemicals, Fitness & Physical Education, Carpeting & Furniture, Drone Development & Applications, Environment & Disaster Management, Agriculture and Languages.
Emphasising digital advancement, the Chief Minister stated that special focus would be laid on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, cyber security, cloud computing, digital marketing, fintech and e-commerce. Virtual labs and industry collaborations will ensure practical exposure, particularly benefiting students from rural and remote areas.
To strengthen industry linkages, the university will establish apprenticeship programmes, incubation centres and placement support cells. Sector Skill Councils and leading industries will contribute to curriculum design and on-the-job training, ensuring graduates are equipped with job-ready skills.
The Chief Minister said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to accessible, quality education and aims to bridge the gap between education and employment. The Global Skills & Digital University is expected to create new avenues for skill development and employment, contributing to the socio-economic growth of Chamba district and the state as a whole.
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