Bhubaneswar: In a bid to enhance students’ skills and boost employability, the Odisha Government is set to introduce finance and investment modules at the undergraduate level.

Announcing the initiative, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj stated trainers from the National Stock Exchange (NSE) will visit Degree colleges across the State to train students in areas related to finance and investment. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed today between the Odisha Higher Education Department and the NSE in presence of Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj in Bhubaneswar to formalise the collaboration.

NSE Chief Business Development Officer Sriram Krishnan and Odisha's Special Secretary Prashant Kishore Mohapatra inked the MoU.

Per the Minister, the training programme will be structured in two levels: Level 1 will include 20 hours of instruction, while Level 2 will extend to 30 hours.

The focus of the initiative will be on improving financial literacy among students.

Officials from the Higher Education Department noted the partnership will also promote investor awareness, equipping students with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions and actively participate in the securities market.

This initiative is expected to enhance students’ employment prospects in sectors such as securities markets, mutual funds, investment advisory services, and the broader Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector. Officials also highlighted the move will strengthen industry-academia collaboration within the State.

NSE will enhance the financial literacy through Investor Awareness Programmes and implement the Student Skilling Programmes for the youth in Odisha.

NSE, Higher Education department

Per the understanding, NSE with the support of the Government of Odisha shall conduct awareness drive through seminars, camps, knowledge sessions, road shows, workshops to spread financial literacy and investor awareness. This MoU also aims to empower the youth with industry-relevant skills and enhance their employability in the BFSI sector.

Suraj said, "The Government of Odisha is proud to partner with NSE to drive financial literacy, investor awareness and student skilling in our region. This MoU is not just about expanding financial knowledge; it is about empowering our students with the knowledge and skills they need with respect to financial sector. Together, we are creating a robust financial ecosystem that will pave the way for sustainable growth in Odisha.”

Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE said, “Our collaboration with the Government of Odisha highlights our shared dedication of boosting financial literacy and empowering investors. Through initiatives like investor awareness programs and the Student Skilling Program, we are fostering a well-informed community for both seasoned and new investors. Moreover, we are  also committed to equipping the youth of Odisha with the vital skills needed to thrive in today's ever-evolving financial landscape.”