KCP Placement-Linked Skill Training Project

Synopsis:

KCP Ltd., a diversified industrial conglomerate, in collaboration with TMI Foundation Trust, initiated a skill development program in Muktyala, Jaggayyapet, NTR District. This placement-linked training aimed to equip unemployed youth with technical skills in fitting and welding, enhancing their employability and economic stability. By providing industry-relevant training, certifications, and job placement support, the program bridged the skill gap and created livelihood opportunities for rural youth.

Situation:

Unemployment among rural youth in the catchment villages surrounding KCP’s industrial operations was a persistent challenge. Despite the presence of industries, local youth lacked the required technical skills to secure stable employment. Many young individuals, particularly from economically weaker sections, struggled to access skill development programs that could provide them with industry-aligned training and job opportunities.

Additionally, there was a significant gender disparity in employment opportunities, with minimal female participation in skill training programs. The need for structured, hands-on training that could directly lead to employment was evident, prompting KCP to launch a targeted intervention.

Solution:

To address these challenges, KCP partnered with TMI Foundation Trust to design and implement a skill training program that included:

• Industry-Aligned Training: The program focused on Fitter and Welder trades, two in-demand skills in the manufacturing and construction sectors. Each course included 240 hours of training, covering technical skills, soft skills, and computer literacy.
• Practical Hands-On Learning: Training was conducted by industry experts, ensuring that trainees gained real-world experience through practical sessions and industrial visits.
• Mobilization and Outreach: Potential candidates were identified through a structured mobilization process, including door-to-door campaigns and community meetings. Parents and guardians were also counseled to encourage participation.
• Certification and Placement Support: Participants underwent third-party assessments to receive industry-recognized certifications. Job placement support was provided, with a 70% placement target.
• Encouraging Female Participation: In response to the low female participation rate in early phases, the program introduced a Customer Relationship Manager (CRM) course, leading to a surge in female enrollment (41%) and placements (32%).

 Response:

The project had a transformative impact on the lives of the beneficiaries. Out of 70 trainees, over 70% secured employment in relevant industries, significantly improving their economic prospects. Many participants, who came from families with an annual income of INR 1.25-1.75 lakhs, saw their earnings increase to INR 1.6 lakhs per year, leading to better financial stability.

A key achievement of the program was the significant rise in female participation and employment, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted interventions in addressing gender disparities in vocational training. Additionally, the program expanded its reach to other areas within the Bikaner district, ensuring broader access to skill development opportunities.

Overall, the KCP Placement-Linked Skill Training Project provided a sustainable pathway for rural youth to secure skilled employment, setting a precedent for similar initiatives in other regions.