Himachal Pradesh News
Government of Himachal Pradesh to Set Up Skill-Based Global Skills & Digital University in Chamba district: A Big Push for Youth Employability
In a significant step towards reshaping the future of higher education, the Government of Himachal Pradesh has approved the establishment of a Global Skills & Digital University in Chamba district. The initiative, announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, aims to bring skill-based, vocational and industry-oriented education closer to the youth, especially in rural and underserved regions.
In a significant step towards reshaping the future of higher education, the Government of Himachal Pradesh has approved the establishment of a Global Skills & Digital University in Chamba district. The initiative, announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, aims to bring skill-based, vocational and industry-oriented education closer to the youth, especially in rural and underserved regions.
A University Designed for Real-World Careers
The proposed university will be set up at Mohal Chalera in Tehsil Sihunta and will focus on bridging the gap between education and employment. Unlike traditional academic institutions, this university will prioritize hands-on learning, employability, and entrepreneurship.
Students will have access to certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes under a credit-based system aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF). Courses will be delivered through online, blended and experiential learning modes, ensuring flexibility and modern relevance.
The Chief Minister emphasized that this step is part of the broader reform vision under “Vyavastha Parivartan”, aimed at transforming governance and bringing transparency, accountability and student-centric reforms in the education sector.
Wide Range of Industry-Focused Schools
The academic structure will include specialized Schools such as:
- 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
- Languages
This diverse portfolio reflects a strong alignment with emerging industry demands and regional economic needs.
Strong Digital Focus for a Future-Ready Workforce
A key highlight of the university will be its emphasis on digital excellence. Students will be trained in high-demand areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Analytics
- Cyber Security
- Cloud Computing
- Digital Marketing
- Fintech
- E-commerce
Virtual labs, industry collaborations and practical exposure will ensure that even students from remote areas of Himachal Pradesh gain access to cutting-edge technologies and global career opportunities.
“Learn While Earn” and Industry Linkages
To make education more accessible and financially viable, the university will introduce a “learn while earn” model, allowing students to gain practical work experience alongside academic learning.
The institution will also establish:
- Strong industry partnerships
- Apprenticeship programmes
- Incubation centres
- Placement support cells
Sector Skill Councils and leading industries will contribute to curriculum design and on-the-job training, ensuring that graduates are job-ready from day one.
A Boost for Chamba and the State Economy
The establishment of the Global Skills & Digital University is expected to bring transformative change to Chamba district and the entire state. Beyond academics, it is projected to generate employment, encourage local entrepreneurship and contribute to the socio-economic growth of the region.
With this initiative, the Himachal Pradesh government is not just opening another university — it is laying the foundation for a future-ready education ecosystem where skills, innovation and opportunity go hand in hand.
This move signals a clear commitment: empowering youth with practical knowledge, digital expertise and global competitiveness, while ensuring education reaches even the most remote corners of the state.