The Jewellery Occupational Skilling Hub (JOSH), an initiative under the Gem & Jewellery Skill Council of India (GJSCI), marked a significant milestone with its convocation ceremony honoring 115 candidates. Among them were graduates from the 7th regular batch and the pioneering batch of specially abled persons (SAP/PwD), trained across various job roles crucial to the jewellery industry.

The ceremony, held at SEEPZ-SEZ, was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Shri. Dnyaneshwar B. Patil, IAS, Development Commissioner of SEEPZ-SEZ, Shri. C. P. S. Chauhan, IRS, Joint Development Commissioner, and Dr. Prasad Varvantkar, IRS, Deputy Development Commissioner. Other notable figures present included GJSCI Chairman Shri. Adil Kotwal, GJSCI Ex-Director Shri. Shishir Nevatia, and GJSCI Director Shri. Colin Shah, among others from the industry such as Shri. Bobby Kothari, MD of Jewelex India Pvt. Ltd., and Mr. Rajeev Garg, Executive Director & CEO of GJSCI.

The highlight of the event was the heartfelt testimonial of a parent, expressing gratitude for the opportunities provided to specially abled candidates, highlighting the impact of inclusive training initiatives. Shri. Dnyaneshwar B. Patil emphasized the importance of empowering every section of society, commending JOSH for its commitment to diversity and skill development regardless of social background.

Shri. Adil Kotwal encouraged graduates to leverage their training and apprenticeship opportunities to secure their futures, while Shri. C. P. S. Chauhan underscored the realities of life and the value of honed skills in achieving sustainable employment. He urged industry partners to offer competitive packages to retain skilled talent.

A notable achievement of the program was the absorption of all SAP batch candidates by Jewelex India Pvt. Ltd., with several others from the general batch finding apprenticeships in various jewellery firms within SEEPZ. Shri. Rajeev Garg expressed gratitude for the support of the Development Commissioner's office and highlighted the rapid strides made by JOSH under the leadership of Shri. Adil Kotwal.

GJSCI reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the JOSH initiative and invited industry partners nationwide to collaborate in establishing similar skill development hubs in their respective regions, thereby fostering industry growth and socio-economic empowerment.

The ceremony concluded with optimism for the future, as JOSH continues to pave the way for inclusive skill development in India's jewellery sector, promising brighter opportunities for all aspiring artisans and professionals.