Sitarganj, Uttarakhand, November 21, 2025: In a major step toward empowering youth with futuristic digital capabilities, the Directorate of Skill Development and Employment (DSDE), SETU Aayog, and NIIT Foundation have partnered to launch the Cyber Suraksha Plus programme across all Government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in Uttarakhand.
Supported by Cisco, the initiative will equip thousands of ITI students with industry-relevant skills in cybersecurity, digital literacy, professional-edge development, and AI-driven learning—strengthening Uttarakhand’s vision of building a future-ready workforce aligned with India’s digital transformation.
The state-wide rollout was inaugurated at Government ITI Sitarganj in the presence of Hon’ble Shri Saurabh Bahuguna, Minister for Skill Development & Employment, Government of Uttarakhand, who served as Chief Guest. Shri Raj Shekhar Joshi, Vice Chairman, SETU Aayog, graced the event as Guest of Honour, along with senior representatives from DSDE, SETU Aayog, Government ITIs, NIIT Foundation, and Cisco.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister Shri Saurabh Bahuguna reiterated the State Government’s commitment to integrating next-generation skills into vocational and technical education. He stressed the importance of strengthening the digital foundation of ITI students while enhancing employability through the Professional Edge Program.
“Uttarakhand is committed to preparing its youth for the opportunities of a rapidly evolving digital world. Programs like the Professional Edge initiative strengthen soft skills and interview readiness, enabling young people to compete confidently in high-growth sectors with NIIT Foundation’s placement support. By integrating future-oriented skills into the ITI ecosystem, we are building a skilled, empowered, and future-ready workforce that can drive the state’s progress and contribute to India’s digital transformation,” said Shri Bahuguna.
Shri Raj Shekhar Joshi, Vice Chairman, SETU Aayog, emphasized that the collaboration strengthens cyber awareness at a critical time when cybercrimes are increasing. He highlighted the need to build cybersecurity, AI-linked skills, and digital competencies within vocational institutions to meet evolving industry demands.
“The Professional Edge Program will help ITI students build essential soft skills, strengthen digital competencies, and become truly interview-ready. By equipping them with cybersecurity awareness, AI exposure, and professional skills—with NIIT Foundation supporting placement drives—we are ensuring that young people can access better opportunities across industries and regions. This will give Uttarakhand’s youth a stronger pathway to future jobs and contribute to the state’s economic growth and India’s wider digital ambitions,” said Shri Joshi.
Representing NIIT Foundation, Akhilesh Sharma, National Program Head – Skills & Education, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to democratise access to quality digital education across India’s vocational landscape.
“We believe that every learner deserves access to high-quality digital education and future-ready skills. Through Cyber Suraksha Plus, we remain committed to supporting Uttarakhand to nurture industry-ready young professionals,” said Sharma.
The event also saw participation from Tarun Anthony, Project Manager, Cisco CSR India, and Amar Gupta, Operations Head, NIIT Foundation.
Cyber Suraksha Plus will be implemented across all Government ITIs in a phased manner, backed by structured monitoring, digital capability-building, and coordinated efforts from DSDE, SETU Aayog, and programme partners. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance employability, elevate digital awareness, and strengthen cybersecurity readiness—positioning Uttarakhand’s youth for success in a rapidly evolving global economy.
