Industry bodies laud Skill Census as a landmark initiative

In a pioneering move to harness and develop the potential of the youth, the State government, under the leadership of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has embarked on the first-ever Skill Census. This ambitious project aims to identify, document, and analyze the competencies and skills among the youth across the state, marking a significant step towards creating a more skilled and employable workforce.
The Skill Census is a comprehensive drive designed to assess the diverse skill sets of the youth, ranging from traditional crafts to modern technological proficiencies. The initiative reflects Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s commitment to fostering a robust and dynamic economy by aligning educational outcomes with market demands and emerging industry trends.  “We are at a crucial juncture where the right investments in our youth can catapult our state into a new era of growth and innovation,” stated Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. “The Skill Census is not just a data collection exercise; it is a foundation for crafting policies that will empower our young population and fuel our state’s progress.”
Dr V Murali Krishna, Chairman of CII Andhra Pradesh, praised the government’s proactive stance, noting that the initiative will effectively harness individual talents to boost economic productivity and job readiness. Educationalists opined that the census will be conducted in multiple phases, with field teams comprising government officials, educators, and volunteers engaging directly with young people.
Detailed data collected will inform targeted interventions, including customized skill development programs, integration of practical learning in education curricula, and support for entrepreneurial ventures.
Industry support for the Skill Census has been robust, with CEOs like Anil Kumar from leading IT firms expressing enthusiasm: “Identifying and nurturing grassroots talent will benefit not only our industry but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the state.”
Potluri Bhaskar Rao, President of AP Chambers of Commerce and Industry Federation, underscored the urgency of the initiative amidst rising unemployment and skill shortages in the MSME sector. Rao emphasized that the Skill Census is pivotal in equipping individuals with essential skills needed to fill these gaps and drive economic growth.
As the Skill Census progresses, regular updates and findings will be shared with the public, ensuring transparency and community involvement. The state government remains committed to leveraging this data to craft policies that will pave the way for a prosperous future for all its young citizens. Chief Minister Naidu’s visionary leadership and the state’s collaborative spirit are set to transform this initiative into a cornerstone of sustainable development, proving that with the right strategies and commitment, the youth can indeed be the driving force of change and progress.