The Centre’s ambitious `Skill India’ campaign, which aims to train 40 crore people by 2022, got a shot in the arm after ICICI Academy for Skills launched its first facility in Mumbai to provide vocational training to the youngsters from economically weaker sections. The institute will offer courses in disciplines like electrical and home appliances repair, refrigeration and air-conditioning repair, bike and three-wheeler servicing and office administration. The institute has tied up with various industry leaders who as `Knowledge Partners’ help in conceptualizing the course curricula and content, setting up practical training laboratories and training of trainers. It has also tied up with industry partners to provide employment opportunities to the trained youth. The course consists of industry-relevant vocational training and also life skills like communication and financial literacy . The course duration is 12 weeks. Aspirants have to clear Std VIII and be between 18 and 30 years of age to become eligible for these courses.

(Source: The Times of India, Mumbai, January 7, 2016)