PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – A new program will offer training from the state’s technical colleges to people who have lost jobs due to the pandemic.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem says the program, called “UpSkill,” will help people develop new skills.

Noem says all four technical colleges will offer the training at little to no cost.

Noem says the state still has lots of job and career opportunities.

While more than 16,000 people are getting unemployment benefits, the state also has about 16,000 jobs openings listed through the Department of Labor.