THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:The state government celebrated ‘Naipunya Dinam 2015’, an event that showcased the achievements of the state in skill development and also launched ‘Praveenyam’, a life skill training programme for youth in partnership with Tata Strive, on Wednesday.
The Praveenyam programme, launched by Panchayat and Social Justice Minister M K Muneer, will be implemented through the Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE) which is the nodal skill development agency of the state. Targeting youngsters between 14 to 30 years of age, Praveenyam aims at empowering its participants by improving their non-cognitive skills and ensuring employability.
As part of the function, Renu Raj, who secured second rank in the Indian Civil Services examination, was also honoured with the Vidya Naipunyam award by Labour Minister Shibu Baby John. Awards were also distributed to 15 students from various ITI institutions who received placements abroad.
“Even though the youth of Kerala find employment abroad, a majority of them work in the lower strata for a lesser pay. Our skills development programmes are aimed at ensuring better salaries,” said Shibu Baby John in his inaugural address. The minister also unveiled the logo and prospectus of Praveenyam.
“We would have earned thrice the amount of foreign currency had we focused on skill development earlier,” observed Muneer, who pointed out that skill development programmes have helped Kudumbasree to soar higher and serve as a model for countries in Africa.
Labour and Skills principal secretary Tom Jose, KASE managing director Rahul R, Tata Sustainability chief Shankar Venkateswaran, FICCI co-chairman Deepak L Aswani, Department of Higher Education additional chief secretary K M Abraham, Directorate of Training additional director P K Madhavan and Centre’s Directorate General of Training joint director Shahjahan were also present.