Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (India) - AKRSP(I) Skill Development

States- Bihar, Gujarat

Districts-Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Dang

Rural India can be the most efficient powerhouse for national development since there is untapped youth potential in these regions. However, Dangs in Gujarat is one of the most underdeveloped regions in the country with 94% tribal population. The tribal communities are largely dependent on rain fed agriculture for their sustenance. As a result, there is high level of migration to nearby districts for employment leading to continued indebtedness and pressure on women. Hence, it is imperative to impart skill development training in the region to provide alternate livelihood opportunities to the youth and reduce the incidence of exploitation. Bihar on the other hand, suffers from lack of resources and institutions to cater to the need of the rural youth, due to dearth of skills and local job opportunities. The youth are thus compelled to migrate to other cities in search of job opportunities.
With the objective of providing holistic training, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities to youth from rural areas, Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (India) (AKRSP(I)) has started the initiative 'Yuva Junction'. The programs looks at working with rural youth for skill development, thus improving their social acceptance.

Axis Bank Foundation in collaboration with AKRSP(I) under Skill Development, focuses to train the youth in rural areas, ensuring job preparedness.

Training is provided on various trades and technical skills including retail, BPO, computer hardware, nursing, beauty and wellness and, sewing and stitching. The vocational courses are coupled with English speaking, basic computer skills and inculcation of life skills. To meet the rising aspirations of the youth, placement opportunities are also provided to the trainees on completion of the course.

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