Case Study: Skill Demand Survey in Eleven Districts of Karnataka for a leading Education Development Trust

About the Client
A well-known Education Development Trust being a not-for-profit organization, committed to improving global educational outcomes. It provides teacher recruitment, professional development, and consultancy services, working with Government organizations and educational institutions worldwide. Known for innovative teaching programs, the organization supports educational reform and delivers high-quality services to enhance learning experiences for students.

1. Scope of the Study
This study examines the demographic, economic, and educational aspects of Eleven Districts, focusing on skill development, employment, and government program alignment. It provides a comprehensive analysis of survey data and institutional efforts to address skill gaps and employment challenges.

2. Objectives

  • Identify Key Demographics: To understand the demographic trends and educational levels of the population.
  • Assess Skill Demand: To evaluate the demand for specific skills in various industries and understand the preferences for skill-based training.
  • Examine Employment Trends: To understand the employment status, job satisfaction, and challenges faced by the workforce.
  • Enhance Awareness of Government Schemes: To explore the awareness of and access to government schemes for financial assistance and skill development.
  • Facilitate Targeted Training Programs: To design skill development initiatives based on the identified needs and gaps.

3. Sample Findings of the Largest District of Karnataka (Bangalore Urban):
Bangalore Urban District is highly urbanized (87.5%) with a literacy rate of 87.67%, and most survey respondents were aged 21-30, primarily non-ex-servicemen (99.86%), with 94% unemployed. Education levels were moderate, with most completing PUC (58%) or SSLC (38%), highlighting the need for technical and communication skills, though soft and managerial skills remain underemphasized. A majority (81%) had no prior skill training, preferring offline, short-term programs (3 months) at government institutes. Key challenges included mobilization issues, infrastructure gaps, low market demand, and minimal awareness of government schemes (1%). Private institutes (80%) dominated the training landscape, with 93% of institutions offering placement support, while government and NGO-run institutes addressed underserved needs.

4. Conclusion
The findings underscore Karnataka's immense potential to become a prominent skill development hub through strategic interventions across its districts. By harnessing the insights and recommendations from this study, the state can foster socio-economic growth, bridging skill gaps, and aligning training outcomes with evolving market demands. With targeted initiatives in education, training, and awareness, Karnataka can create a robust, inclusive workforce ecosystem, empowering its population, enhancing employment opportunities, and driving the state's economic advancement.