A Journey of Empowerment with Vedanta's Sesa Technical School

India as a country rich in its demographic dividend could play a critical role in achieving the nation’s ambitious target to become a USD 5 trillion economy. At Vedanta, we continue to empower communities and transform lives through sustainable and inclusive growth with an unwavering commitment to empowering youth through skill development. One of our endeavours has been the transformation of the Sesa Technical School, an initiative since 1994 aimed to equip local youth in Goa with relevant skills to successfully enter the workforce or embark on their entrepreneurial journeys. Till date, STS has transformed the lives of over 1,700 individuals, enabling them to lead dignified lives through meaningful employment.

This is the story of a boy from a small village called Virdi, located near the Sesa Goa mines. He came from a humble background and always dreamed of pursuing higher education. However, due to financial constraints, his family was unable to support his aspirations. Undeterred by the circumstances, Pratap was determined to find a way to pursue his passion for learning. After completing his schooling, he discovered a glimmer of hope - to enrol in the Machinist trade at Sesa Technical School. This renowned institution, under the aegis of Sesa Goa, offered industrial training at a nominal fee. Pratap saw this as his opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in the field he desired.

Upon enrolling in STS, Pratap quickly realized that he had made the right decision. The faculty at the school were exceptional, providing both theoretical and practical education that surpassed his expectations. During his two years at STS, Pratap delved deep into the concepts of his chosen field and honed his skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. True to its reputation, STS opened doors for Pratap and secured him a placement at German Remedies, where he worked diligently as an operator for a year, gaining valuable industry experience. Pratap's dedication caught the attention of a renowned FMCG company, where he worked for a short while before a life-changing opportunity presented itself.

In 2001, Pratap received an offer to work with a prominent Japanese company based in Gurgaon. Accepting the opportunity, he embarked on a journey that would shape his future. Over the next eight years, Pratap dedicated himself to his work, excelling in his role and earning recognition for his contributions. His company recognized his potential and sponsored his Diploma course in Mechanical Engineering, allowing him to further enhance his knowledge and expertise. With his newfound qualifications and experience, Pratap sought fresh challenges. He joined a prominent multinational as a Utility Engineer before moving on to roles such as Project Engineer and Quality Manager. His commitment to his craft and solid understanding of his field garnered attention, as well as his dedication to maintaining high standards and ensuring excellence in all aspects of the company's operations earned him admiration from his peers. In 2011, Pratap embarked on a new chapter of his career, joining Electro chemical giant, where he earned the position of Production In charge and Safety Manager.

Reflecting on his journey, Pratap expresses his gratitude to Vedanta. From an operator to a manager, his unwavering determination and the solid foundation laid by Vedanta’s skilling initiatives have propelled him to great heights. As he stands at the pinnacle of his career, he cherishes the memories of his early struggles and the opportunities that shaped his life. His story has become an inspiration to many aspiring individuals, reminding them that with education, perseverance, and training, they too can overcome any obstacle and turn their dreams into reality.