Patiala, 12 December 2024– The Handicrafts and Carpet Sector Skill Council (HCSSC) has partnered with the prestigious international organization, PUM Netherlands, to conduct multiple International Expert Workshops aimed at empowering artisans in the traditional and heritage crafts clusters of India. The current event was held at the Patiala Handicrafts Workshop Cooperative Society Ltd, which serves as the Centre of Excellence of HCSSC.
The 7-day workshop focused on critical areas such as Innovation, Business Strategies, Marketing, and AI-driven Entrepreneurship, specifically tailored for the Handicrafts sector. The workshop was conducted by international expert Ms. Anoejska Timmermans, a renowned authority in the field.
The key areas of the workshop included:
Models for TOT (Training of Trainers) and TOMT (Training of Master Trainers): Enhancing market knowledge and understanding of emerging business strategies.
Entrepreneurship Development for TOT and TOMT: Handmade crafts and new handcrafted products in line with market needs.
Marketing Strategy: Strengthening value propositions for handicraft products in domestic and international markets.
Entrepreneurial Training with AI Integration: Providing artisans with essential skills to start and grow their own startups while utilizing AI tools to enhance efficiency.
On this occasion, Mr. Krishan Kumar, Chief Executive Officer, Handicrafts and Carpet Sector Skill Council (HCSSC), emphasized the significance of the collaboration with PUM Netherlands: “This partnership brings much-needed innovation to our handmade products. The workshop offers a valuable opportunity for the artisans in not only adding value to the handmade products but also to gain essential entrepreneurial skills which will help them embark on their entrepreneurial journey with greater confidence.”
The International Expert Workshop is expected to provide the artisans of Patiala with the skills and knowledge to elevate their craft, introduce innovation into their business models, and improve their position in both domestic and global markets. The workshop is an important step in ensuring that the handicrafts sector continues to thrive with new opportunities for growth, sustainability, and international recognition.
Further, Ms. Rekha Maan-President and Founder and Ms. Kajal Maan-Executive Director of The Patiala Handicrafts Workshop Cooperative Society Ltd., shared their thoughts on the workshop: “This initiative will not only enhance the skills of our artisans but also ensure they are equipped with the latest international and national market trends, seasonal insights, and innovative techniques. By introducing design development into our handmade products, we aim to take the Patiala handicrafts to global markets.”
While giving training to the Artisans, Ms. Anoejska Timmermans, the International Expert from PUM Netherlands, expressed her excitement about the initiative: “I am thrilled to be a part of this transformative workshop. It is an incredible opportunity to work with the artisans of Patiala, helping them explore new horizons and embrace innovation, which will significantly impact their businesses and the handicraft sector as a whole.”