Kerala govt. creating skill pathways and platforms for youth employment: Minister R. Bindu

Reaffirming the Kerala government’s commitment to building a knowledge-driven State, Higher Education and Social Justice Minister R. Bindu said structured training and employment platforms are being created to help young people transition confidently into the workforce.

“In shaping Kerala into a modern knowledge society, enabling youth to access meaningful employment through the right training and opportunities is a firm resolve of this government,” the Minister said while inaugurating ‘Aspire 2026’, the New Year edition of the job fair series organised by ASAP Kerala.

The job fair was held at Christ College in Irinjalakuda on Friday and brought together over 30 leading companies and more than 1,500 jobseekers. Nearly 200 candidates secured employment during the drive, turning the event into a gateway to opportunity for youth in Irinjalakuda and nearby regions.

Bridging the skill gap

The Minister said skill training aligned to students’ aptitude is being systematically delivered across campuses. “Providing job-oriented skill training within campuses is crucial. One of our core missions is to bridge the skill gap between education and employment,” she noted.

A key highlight of the event was the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding between ASAP Kerala and Infosys. Under the agreement, engineering students will receive a 16-week free internship at Infosys, offering valuable industry exposure and hands-on experience. Christ College was also honoured with an award for being the best-performing institution in collaboration with ASAP Kerala.

The placement drive also featured ‘Nareechakra – Penkaruthu’, a special initiative by ASAP Kerala aimed at helping women with career breaks re-enter the workforce.