JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, in association with the Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DICCI) and under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India, has commenced a five-day Training of Trainers (ToT) on Small Business Development Units (SBDUs). The programme is being held at IIM Jammu Srinagar Off Campus.
The primary objective of the ToT programme is to equip trainers from various proposed SBDUs at Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and Government Polytechnics with the necessary skills and knowledge to train local entrepreneurs. These SBDUs will serve as district hubs, fostering entrepreneurship and skill development at the grassroots level. The program consisted of 24 participants different ITI and polytechnics.
The programme was inaugurated by Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu. In his inaugural address, he highlighted the critical role that SBDUs will play in enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region. He stated, “The establishment of SBDUs at ITIs and Government Polytechnics will act as a catalyst for local economic development. By empowering trainers with the right skills and knowledge, we are laying the foundation for a robust network of local entrepreneurs who can drive sustainable growth in their communities.”
During the inaugural session, Dr. Mamta Tripathi provided an insightful overview of the SBDU initiative, outlining its objectives and expected impact. Dr. Shahid Jibran, Project Manager, SBDU, IIM Jammu remarked that the goal of the initiative is to create a supportive environment where local entrepreneurs can thrive. By training the trainers, the programme ensures that they have the tools and resources necessary to guide aspiring entrepreneurs towards success.
Present on the occasion was Prof. Rajesh Sikka, Professor of Practice, IIM Jammu. Mr. Naren Karunakaran, Consultant, SBDU, IIM Jammu also attended the session, lending his expertise and support to the initiative. His presence underscored the collaborative effort required to ensure the success of the SBDU programme.
The Training of Trainers programme aims to prepare participants to establish and run SBDU centers effectively in their respective ITIs and Government Polytechnics. By the end of the five-day training, participants will be well-equipped to impart training to local entrepreneurs, thereby contributing to the overall goal of skill development and entrepreneurship promotion in their districts.
