"BPCL’s commitment to skill development commendable" - Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary at SDI Kochi

Kochi, 19 September 2026:  “BPCL’s decade-long commitment to skill development through SDI Kochi is commendable. What impressed me most is the focus on inclusive skilling and industry-aligned, future-ready training that truly empowers our youth,”* said Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Government of India, during his visit to Skill Development Institute (SDI), Kochi today.

Shri Chaudhary was accompanied by Shri Sujith Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship.

He was welcomed by Shri Chacko M. Jose, Executive Director (Kochi Refinery) & Director (Refinery), BPCL - Designate, Shri Meganathan, GM (HR), BPCL, Shri Sivakumar G.S., CEO, SDI Kochi, and senior representatives from BPCL and the Central and State skill development ecosystem.

Established in 2016 by Skill Development Society, Kochi, chaired by BPCL, SDI Kochi is a flagship CSR initiative of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited.

The institute has certified around 2,100  dipla holders to date, achieving an impressive *98% placement record.

SDI Kochi offers a six-month fully residential program at a nominal fee of only Rs. 5,000/-, making quality skill training accessible to youth from economically weaker sections.

Courses offered include: Industrial Electrician, Industrial Welder, Electronic Manufacturing, Fitter Fabrication, and Process Instrument Operator – all designed to meet current industry demands.

A key highlight of the visit was the Minister’s interaction with hearing-impaired trainees, where he appreciated their confidence and commitment, underlining the importance of inclusive skilling for self-reliance.

The Minister lauded the SDI model and called for stronger collaboration between Government, industry and skill institutions to build a skilled and Atmanirbhar Bharat

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