Deadline: 24-Nov-2025
UNICEF India has launched a digitally led, employment-linked skilling program to enhance youth employability in Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Odisha. Targeting underserved and rural communities, the initiative combines technical skill development, employability training, and job placement support, aiming to prepare young people for sustainable careers. The program emphasizes inclusive growth, industry-relevant skills, and measurable outcomes through certification and post-training employment opportunities.
Overview of UNICEF India Digital Skilling Initiative
UNICEF India’s digital skilling program is a structured initiative designed to improve youth employability through high-quality training, practical experience, and job placement support. It focuses on providing pathways for young people, especially women and underserved communities, to gain industry-relevant skills aligned with employment opportunities. The program will be implemented in Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Odisha, targeting regions with limited access to skill development and professional growth.
Key Objectives
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Enhance employability of youth aged 18–29 years.
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Provide industry-aligned technical and foundational skills.
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Facilitate equitable participation for rural and semi-urban youth.
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Ensure job placement and post-training support for at least 50% of certified participants.
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Promote inclusion of women, with a target of 70% female participation.
Program Structure and Training Components
Digital Skilling Courses
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Aligned with National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) Level 4 or 5.
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Job roles include Data Entry Executive, Tally Operator, Digital Sales Associate.
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Duration: 240 hours over 10–12 weeks.
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Mode: Combination of self-paced learning and weekly facilitator-led sessions.
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Tools: Digital tracking systems monitor engagement and learning progress.
Employment Block and Employability Modules
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Focus on communication, interview preparation, and digital productivity.
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Prepares participants to confidently enter competitive job markets.
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Includes interactive assessments, quizzes, and a capstone project demonstrating job readiness.
Who is Eligible?
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Youth aged 18–29 years.
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Residents of Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, Odisha, especially rural and semi-urban areas.
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Priority for youth not engaged in education, employment, or training (NEET).
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Inclusive: minimum 70% female participation target.
Why It Matters
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Tackles youth unemployment in underserved regions.
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Bridges skill gaps between education and industry requirements.
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Promotes gender equity and inclusion in the workforce.
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Provides career pathways leading to sustainable livelihoods.
How It Works / How to Apply
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Program Enrollment: Targeting at least 500 learners.
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Training Delivery: Digital skilling courses with facilitator-led sessions.
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Assessment and Certification: Minimum 70% completion required; certifications validated by NCVET or equivalent.
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Post-Training Support:
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Employment, internships, apprenticeships for at least 50% of certified learners.
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Career counseling, resume building, mock interviews.
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Engagement with employer networks, recruitment drives, and job fairs.
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Monitoring: Post-placement tracking and feedback to measure outcomes.
Common Mistakes and Tips
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Incomplete Applications: Ensure all participant details are submitted.
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Low Engagement: Encourage active participation in facilitator sessions.
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Certification Gaps: Focus on achieving the minimum completion requirement (70%).
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Ignoring Employability Modules: Don’t skip communication and interview training.
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Limited Follow-Up: Leverage post-training support for job placement.
FAQ
Q1: What age group is eligible for this program?
A: Youth aged 18–29 years.
Q2: Which states are covered?
A: Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, Odisha.
Q3: How long is the training program?
A: 10–12 weeks, totaling 240 hours.
Q4: What certifications are provided?
A: Certificates aligned with NSQF Level 4 or 5, validated by NCVET or equivalent.
Q5: Is there a focus on women participants?
A: Yes, a minimum of 70% female participation is targeted.
Q6: What post-training support is offered?
A: Career counseling, internships, employment opportunities, resume building, and mock interviews.
Q7: How is the program monitored for quality?
A: Through digital tracking of learner engagement, ongoing assessments, and post-placement feedback.
Conclusion
UNICEF India’s digital skilling initiative represents a transformative opportunity for youth in underserved regions. By integrating technology, practical skill development, and employment support, it empowers participants—especially women—to build sustainable careers. This program not only enhances employability but also strengthens India’s workforce, driving inclusive economic growth and community resilience.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.
