Hyderabad, 6th February, 2024: GMR Aero Academy (GMRAA), the education, training and skilling arm of GMR Airports Infrastructure Ltd. (GIL) announced dual partnerships with Skill Development & Technical Education Department (SDTE) as well as the Department of Commerce & Transport(C&T), Government of Odisha to skill Odia youth in aviation.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between GMRAA and the Skill Development and Technical Education (SDTE), and C&T Department, Government of Odisha. Hon’ble Minister Commerce and Transport Smt. Tukuni Sahu, Hon’ble Minister Skill Development and Technical Education Shri Priti Ranjan Gharai, and Principal Secretary Smt. Usha Padhee, Special Secretary Sh. Manoj Mishra along with senior official from GMR Aero Academy graced the occasion.
The MoU with the Skill Development and Technical Education Department will provide a pathway for the skilling of more than 300 Odia youths in specialized courses like Certification in Airport Operations (CAO), Basic Fire Fighters Course (BFFC), and Air Cargo Management Executive (ACME) in the initial phase. This partnership has been possible because of the flexibility and agility given under the aspirational NUA (Nutana Unnata Abhilasha) Odisha Scheme, which opens pathways for Odia youths to avail skilling courses in futuristic and aspirational trades. Similarly, the MoU with the Commerce & Transport Department through the Biju Patnaik Aviation Centre, Birasal(BPAC) will open up opportunities for Odia youths to upskill themselves in aviation- focused courses, equipping them with credentials and expertise for diverse roles across the aviation landscape.
Speaking on this occasion, Mr Ashok Gopinath, President and Accountable Manager, GMR Aero Technic & GMR Aviation Academy said, "Our partnerships with the Govt. of Odisha mark a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering excellence in aviation education. We have consistently invested in new learnings and development, ensuring that students enhance their skill regularly. With the growing demand for skilled manpower in the aviation industry, this partnership will assist aviation enthusiasts in staying abreast of the best practices and adapting to the changes in this dynamic eco system.”
In her address, the Hon’ Minister of Commerce & Transport, Smt. Tukuni Sahu, highlighted that under the leadership of Hon’ CM Sh. Naveen Pattnaik and the 5T framework, Odiha is witnessing a transformation in the aviation sector. This transformation is not only creating employment opportunities for the youth but also contributing to the realization of Nutana Odisha.
In his remarks, Hon’ Minister of Skill Development & Technical Education, Sh. Pritiranjan Gharai, emphasized that Skilling in Odisha has attained a global presence. He underscored the significance of the partnership with GMR in this historic occasion, stating that it will enhance the value proposition. He expressed confidence that Odisha, through such initiatives, will emerge as he leading state in the country, offering unparalleled skilling and employment opportunities for its youth.
Speaking on her welcome address, Mrs. Usha Padhee, IAS, Principal Secretary mentioned, “ In new age economy, aviation is going to play a crucial role. Aviation Jobs are very aspirational. Providing this niche opportunity to our youth would help them to transform their lives.”
This groundbreaking initiative underscores government's unwavering support for transformative endeavours aimed at skill development and employment generation. Govt of Odisha aims at shaping the future of the aviation workforce in India and contributing to the socio-economic development of Odisha. GMRAA invites aspiring candidates to embark on this transformative journey towards a brighter future in the aviation sector.
About GMR Aero Academy :
The academy conducts training programmes accredited by Airport Council International (ACI), International Air Transport Association (IATA), International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) with focus on the Asia Pacific, Middle East and African regions. It is the only one of its kind in India to have been conferred with the “Regional Training Center of Excellence” stature of ICAO and the “Global Training Hub” by the ACI. It is also an Authorized Training Center and Accredited Training School of IATA.
For further information about GMR Aero Academy, visit www.gmrgroup.in/academy
For further details, please contact:
Sangeetha CR
Head - Corporate Communications (GHIAL)
Email: Sangeetha.CR@gmrgroup.in
Phone: 040 67395630
Aditi Basak
Lead – PR & Communications (GHIAL)
Email: Aditi.Basak@gmrgroup.in
Phone: 9830568840
Mukesh Vadlamani
AM – Corporate Communications (GHIAL)
Email: Mukesh.Vadlamani@gmrgroup.in
Phone: 8297006156