Bengaluru, Dharwad, India, November 18, 2024 – LTIMindtree Foundation, in collaboration with FUEL (Friends Union for Energising Lives), IIIT Dharwad Research Park (IDRP), and IIIT Dharwad, announce the launch of a transformative skill development program aimed at empowering underserved youth with essential skills for the IT, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Core Java industries. This certificate program for future skills is designed to bridge the gap between education and employability by providing them with the tools they need to thrive in the digital economy. The program will be conducted by faculty from FUEL Business School and IIIT Dharwad and a joint certification will be provided by LTIMindtree Foundation and IIIT Dharwad.

This certificate program, spearheaded by LTIMindtree Foundation, aims to empower students who have been out of formal education, with comprehensive training, internship opportunities, and stipend support. Delivered in collaboration with IIIT Dharwad, the curriculum features instructor-led and self-paced learning, workshops, expert talks, project work, and internships assuring a blended delivery model that provides both theoretical knowledge and practical industry experience.

The key features of this program are:

• Livelihood Support: Students will receive support to secure sustainable career opportunities in the IT sector.
• Career Awareness: Exposure to diverse work environments, career options, IT skills, and industry culture.
• IT Skill Education: Targeted education focused on preparing students for the IT jobs of the future.
• Apprenticeship Opportunities: Apprenticeship opportunities will help students transition smoothly into the IT industry.
• Certificate of Completion: A course completion certificate from IIIT Dharwad to enhance employability.

The program is specifically tailored for youths from marginalized and weaker sections of society who wish to pursue a career in IT, AI and Core Java. Women, as well as students in their final year of graduation or those who have recently graduated and are searching for IT, AI and Core Java jobs, are encouraged to apply.

“We are committed to advancing economic mobility by providing high-quality technology training to underserved youth. This program is a testament to our dedication to building a diverse talent pipeline and supporting India’s leadership in the digital economy,” said, Paneesh Rao, Chief Sustainability Officer, LTIMindtree.

“This collaboration is an important step towards empowering youth with future-ready skills and providing them with opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. We are proud to be part of this transformative journey,” added, Ketan Deshpande, Chairman, FUEL.

“Our partnership with FUEL and LTIMindtree Foundation aims to bridge the skill gap in the IT, AI and Core Java industries by providing students with the right mix of technical and soft skills. We are excited to see the impact this program will have on the lives of these young individuals,” emphasized Prof. Mahadev Prasanna, Director, IIIT Dharwad.

This skill development program combines comprehensive soft skills and aptitude training, technical education in Artificial Intelligence, and Core Java, and hands-on experience with leading IT companies. The goal is to equip students with industry-relevant skills, provide a supportive learning environment, and facilitate pathways to sustainable livelihoods.