Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes O.R. Kelu with the students of Digital University Kerala on Thursday.
Digital University Kerala (DUK) has successfully completed the first batch of its innovative skill development programme, tailored specifically for Scheduled Castes (SC) students.
The programme, offered in association with the SC Development department, focussed on cutting-edge skill areas such as blockchain technology, cybersecurity and PCB design. A total of 63 students, who successfully completed their internships, have now secured placements with leading IT companies, including TCS, NeST Digital, Simplify, SoftTech and Innovation Incubator.
These students were part of a larger group of 102 participants, who were enrolled in the specialised training initiative. The remaining students will also be placed upon completing their internships, official sources stated.
First of its kind
The university added that the custom-designed skill development programme is the first of its kind in India to be implemented in association with a premier digital academic institution as part of a government initiative. Notably, the programme guarantees 100% placement with high salaries in top-tier IT firms, making it a benchmark in inclusive education and employment initiatives.
Minister for Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes O.R. Kelu presided over the certificate distribution ceremony on the DUK campus on Thursday.
Speaking on the occasion, he emphasised the transformative potential of such initiatives in building a knowledge-based economy in the State.
Progressive initiative
The programme is one of the most progressive and impactful initiatives launched by the SC Development department to uplift marginalised communities through digital empowerment, he said.
SC Development department director D. Dharmalashri, DUK Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) Ciza Thomas, Registrar A. Mujeeb, Centre for Executive Education director Santhosh Kurup and SC Development department chief planning officer M. Hussain were also present at the ceremony.
Published – June 27, 2025 07:49 pm IST