Bignashwini Bisi and Abhiram Harijan took different routes into the workforce, but both found an important turning point through vocational training. Their experiences show how learning a practical skill can translate into employment, confidence and greater independence.
Bignashwini, from Badguda village, joined a skill development programme to improve her employment prospects. She completed two months of Food & Beverage Service training, where she learned technical skills alongside communication and IT skills.
The training helped her prepare for a professional workplace and become more confident in her abilities. She subsequently secured employment with a leading pan-India restaurant chain.
“The training helped me improve my communication skills and gain confidence. Today, I am able to work independently, support my family, and look ahead with confidence,” says Bignashwini.
Her experience shows how vocational training in Odisha can help young people move from learning a skill to finding employment.
Finding a Direction Through Technical Training
Abhiram Harijan from Musanal village joined the programme with a different challenge. Coming from a financially constrained background, he had limited employment opportunities and wanted to develop technical skills that could improve his prospects.
He received technical training along with soft-skills development and placement assistance. The combination helped him gain practical experience and prepare for the workplace.
Abhiram subsequently secured employment and established a stable source of income.
“The training gave me the skills and confidence needed to build a better future. Securing a job has helped me support my family and encouraged me to strive for greater opportunities,” says Abhiram.
For him, learning a technical trade provided a clearer direction for his career and the confidence to pursue better opportunities.
When Skills Lead to Independence
The experiences of Bignashwini and Abhiram highlight the personal impact of skill development in Kalahandi. Behind employment numbers are young people using their training to build careers, support their families and become more financially independent.
Through Vedanta Aluminium Lanjigarh, skill development initiatives are helping participants gain practical knowledge while preparing them for employment.
The wider focus on youth empowerment in Odisha is about creating opportunities that can continue to have an impact after training ends. Employment can provide young people with greater financial stability and the confidence to plan their next steps.
For Bignashwini and Abhiram, the journey began with learning a skill. It has since opened the door to employment and a more independent future.
