The Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IGJ), which is affiliated with the Gem & Jewellery Skill Council of India, has announced expansion plans especially in the GCC market in its 10th year of operations to equip professionals in the burgeoning jewellery industry.

Founded by Safa Group, a leading brand in the luxury life-style segment, IGJ has so far trained over 12,000 professionals and placed them in global markets. IGJ is emerging as a premier trainer and innovation hub across the country, said K.T.M.A. Salam, chairman of the group.

�As we enter 10th year, our mission is to modernise the jewellery sector, integrate cutting-edge technologies, and address the evolving needs of the global market. IGJ is to foster innovation and equip the next generation of skilled professionals to lead the industry into the future�, he said.

The company has taken measures to address the skill gap of the gem and jewellery industry in line with the government�s National Education Policy and skilling mission. It had recently signed an MoU with Saudi Gold Precious Metal Association to offer technical training for the youth in Saudi Arabia to equip them for the ever evolving job market of gem and jewellery industry.

The institute is also in the process of launching a jewellery start-up incubator to empower entrepreneurs with resources and guidance and an innovative e-learning platform for jewellery courses.

According to Salam, Safa Gold & Diamonds � part of the group -- has chalked out plans to open 100 stores for design and light weight jewellery across the country in the next five years. World over, there has been a shift to design and light weight jewellery among the youth and the company hopes to cash in on the rising trends.

A road map for expansion has also been prepared which would include entering the capital market with an SME IPO in the 2025-26 fiscal year, he added.

Courtesy: The Hindu Business Line