Students should develop skills for job market readiness

Madikeri: Vijaya Bharati Sayani, a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), emphasized the importance of skill development for students. She spoke at a national symposium organized by Kodagu University in Kushalnagar on Monday. Sayani believes that if young people acquire necessary skills, India can become a powerhouse of human resources. She pointed out that unemployment and a lack of job opportunities are major issues, affecting millions in India and around the world. According to her, this problem stems from a shortage of vocational skills. She mentioned that India has a tradition of skill-based learning, which has declined over time due to colonial influences and industrialization. Sayani noted that the NHRC is dedicated to protecting workers' rights, especially as automation and artificial intelligence change the job market. Mysore MP Yaduveer Wadiyar added that the digital age offers many job opportunities, but India is struggling to provide people with the necessary skills. Rajiv Jain, a former director of the Intelligence Bureau, highlighted how technology and globalization are rapidly changing the employment landscape. Kodagu University's vice-chancellor, Prof Ashok S Alura, stressed the need for continuous adaptation to new job models. He raised questions about whether the current education system equips students with the skills they need for future careers.