SDC 2024 Progress Overview

Skill Development Centres (SDCs)

Empowering Kerala's Youth for a Thriving Future

Bridging the Skills Gap

Recognizing the urgent need to align youth competencies with a dynamic job market, the Government of Kerala, under the STARS Scheme, has launched the Skill Development Centre initiative. This ambitious program aims to establish a robust network of SDCs, transforming the state's workforce by providing accessible, industry-aligned training in "new-generation" courses for individuals under 23.

210

Total Centres Planned

29

Diverse Job Roles

15

Key Industry Sectors

Pilot Phase: A Proven Success

Demonstrated High Demand

The pilot phase, launched on March 2, 2024, in 14 SDCs, saw overwhelming interest. With over 100 applications received for every 25 available seats per job role, the initiative clearly addresses a significant need among Kerala's youth for quality skill development.

Tangible Placement Outcomes

Strong industry partnerships and practical training led to immediate employment opportunities. Many students secured placements directly from their On-the-Job Training (OJT).

• 100% Placement

  All Food & Beverage Service Associate students from pilot centres received job offers from prestigious hotels like GRT, Oshin, and Green Gates.

• EV Technician Success

  Electric Vehicle Service Technician students from Balussery and Palakkad secured jobs at their OJT centres, highlighting direct industry absorption.

Core Pillars of the SDC Model

1. Industry Collaboration

A cornerstone of the SDC program is the deep integration with industry partners, which ensures curriculum relevance and creates a direct pathway to employment.

Mandatory OJT (80-120 Hours)

↓

Expert Interactions & Mentorship

↓

Industrial Visits

↓

Direct Placements

2. Empowering Foundation Module

A dedicated 40-hour module, developed with the Udyam Foundation and supported by TCS, equips trainees with critical soft skills for the knowledge economy.

• 💡 Innovation & Creativity
• 🧠 Design Thinking Principles
• 🗣️ Effective Communication Skills
• 💼 Entrepreneurial Mindset
• 💻 Exposure to New Technologies

SDC 2.0: Scaling Up Skill Development

Statewide Expansion

Building on the pilot's success, the second phase was launched on October 18, 2024, expanding the network with an additional 196 centres. This ensures wider access to skill development across various school levels, fostering a robust, statewide ecosystem.

Governance & Infrastructure

A multi-tiered governance structure ensures effective implementation and local engagement, from District Collectors to school-level committees led by MLAs. Each SDC is managed by a dedicated Coordinator, two qualified Trainers, and a Skill Centre Assistant.

Funding for Growth

An initial fund of 21.5 lakhs from Samagra Shiksha Kerala enabled the establishment of high-quality labs and workshops in the pilot phase, setting a high standard for infrastructure.

Future Vision: Centres of Excellence

The SDCs are envisioned to evolve into "Centres of Skill Excellence," serving as hubs for vocationalizing school education from the primary level upwards. They will act as invaluable community assets, driving socio-economic development across Kerala by fostering a culture of lifelong learning and skill enhancement.