One advantage that India has over its nearest and more developed nations is the “demographic dividend” – the percentage of its population in the employable age. But the “advantage” is hinged on the skill and the employability of its population which unfortunately is unimpressive.

The percentage of population amongst the youth that is single skilled is 96 per cent in the case of Korea, 28 per cent in the case of Mexico and 22 per cent in the case of Botswana. India’s skill base stands at just over five per cent amongst the youth and that is a cause for concern.

But the good news is – remedial action is underway. A partnership between the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), Young Indians (Yi) and Global Talent Track (GTT) have come together to launch an initiative to improve the employability of the rural youth. Sakaal Times reports that “The Employment Series”, aimed at youth who have completed their higher secondary schooling, would be conducted using “blended learning methodology” which …

would include classroom training, e-learning supported by a facilitator in the classroom, interactive virtual classroom through WebEx and workbook sessions to facilitate the learning”.

The consortium claims that the program is designed to be scalable and replicable all over India. But it is currently launched in four “training centers” in Pune and Kohlapur as a pilot.

This is indeed a welcome initiative simply because it has come at the right time. However details the modus operandi of the program isn’t available yet. So questions like the sectors of focus and the kinds of skills imparted still remain unanswered.

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