VIJAYAWADA: HRD Minister N Lokesh has directed officials to strengthen the implementation of skill development programmes and expand employment opportunities for youth in Andhra Pradesh.
He reviewed progress of skill development initiatives with officials at his residence in Undavalli on Thursday. Officials briefed him on skill development initiatives and APSSDC training programmes.
AP ranked second after Uttar Pradesh in PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana utilisation, with 192 centres set for upgrades. They said 5.43 lakh youth had secured employment and livelihoods, while AP recorded a 76% placement rate against the national average of 64%, ranking first among major States.
Lokesh directed officials to set a target of providing employment to one lakh youth every year via SEEDAP. He called for coordination between OMCAP and SEEDAP to facilitate overseas employment opportunities for youth.
Reviewing the PM Internship Scheme, he asked officials to ensure its utilisation so that unemployed could benefit.
Under PM-SETU, State ITIs were divided into 18 clusters, with AM/NS selected as Vizag’s industry partner. Officials were directed to finalise others.