Odisha Higher Education Department partners with NSEIL to launch the BFSI Skilling Programme, boosting student employability and financial literacy
OdishaPlus Bureau
In a move aimed at improving financial literacy and enhancing the employability of students, the Odisha Higher Education Department has decided to introduce the National Stock Exchange (NSE) BFSI Skilling Programme in higher educational institutions across the State.
The department will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSEIL) for implementation of the programme, which will be executed by Talent Skillsversity, the initiative’s implementation partner.
The programme seeks to bridge the gap between classroom education and the evolving requirements of the banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) sector by providing students with industry-oriented knowledge of financial markets, mutual funds and investment products.
As part of the initiative, students will undergo a 30-hour Mutual Funds Certificate Programme along with structured preparation for the NISM VA Certification, a nationally recognised qualification conducted by the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM).
Officials said the certification would equip students with practical knowledge of financial markets, securities, mutual funds, investment planning and other financial instruments, preparing them for careers in the rapidly growing BFSI industry.
The programme has been designed primarily for students pursuing B.Com, BBA, BMS, BA (Economics/Commerce), MBA and M.Com courses.
To ensure smooth implementation, the Higher Education Department has directed all identified state public universities and colleges to nominate a nodal officer, preferably a faculty member from Commerce, Management, Economics, Finance or related disciplines.
“This is a commendable initiative by the state government as it will prepare students for emerging career opportunities in the rapidly expanding BFSI sector. These days, many people are participating in the share market and even opting for it as a career. Exposing students to the practical aspects of financial markets beyond conventional classroom education will definitely help them,” said Prabhas Ranjan Swain, a commerce lecturer.
Apart from strengthening financial literacy, the programme is expected to significantly improve students’ employability by enabling them to earn an industry-recognised certification before completing their graduation or post-graduation.
Sources said around 97 colleges and several state universities have been identified for implementation of the programme. Regional Directors of Higher Education in Bhubaneswar, Berhampur, Balasore, Sambalpur and Jeypore have also been instructed to facilitate its rollout across institutions.