CM Sawant Calls for Human-Centric Reskilling at IIIE CEOs Conference in Panaji

PANAJI: Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant on Thursday stressed the urgent need for future-ready skills, innovation, and human-centric technological growth while addressing the 26th CEOs Conference of the Indian Institution of Industrial Engineering (IIIE) in Panaji. The conference, held under the theme “Reskilling for Industry 5.0: The New Competencies for Industrial Engineers”, brought together industry leaders, engineers, and policymakers to discuss the evolving role of industrial engineering in the next phase of industrial transformation. Dr. Sawant said Industry 5.0 is not just about automation and AI, but about blending technology with human creativity, empathy, and problem-solving. He underlined that engineers must be equipped with new competencies like data literacy, sustainable design thinking, and adaptive leadership to drive growth that is both productive and people-focused.

“Goa is positioning itself as a hub for green, digital, and knowledge-based industries. For that, our workforce must be reskilled continuously. Industrial engineers will be key to ensuring that technology empowers people, not replaces them,” Chief Minister said.

He also highlighted state initiatives like the Goa Startup Policy, Skill Development Mission, and industry-academia partnerships aimed at bridging the skill gap. Dr. Sawant urged CEOs and industry bodies to collaborate with educational institutions to co-design curricula that reflect Industry 5.0 demands. The conference saw participation from over 150 CEOs, senior engineers, and IIIE office bearers from across the country. Sessions focused on smart manufacturing, cognitive ergonomics, and sustainable supply chains. IIIE officials thanked the Chief Minister for his support and said the deliberations would help shape a national roadmap for reskilling engineers in line with Industry 5.0 goals.