Vocational training and employability: A study in reference to skill development program from Gujarat, India

Area of Science:

• Socioeconomics
• Vocational Education
• Rural Development

Background:

• The Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) aims to improve employability of rural youth.
• Skill development programs are crucial for bridging the rural-urban divide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of DDU-GKY on vocational skill enhancement and employability of rural youth in Gujarat.
• To analyze the influence of gender, education, and Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) on program effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from over 500 beneficiaries with qualitative insights from in-depth interviews.
• The Kirkpatrick training evaluation model provided the framework for the study.

Main Results:

• DDU-GKY has demonstrated a transformative impact on rural youth, enhancing their vocational skills and employability.
• Analysis revealed critical success factors and areas for improvement within the skill development initiatives.
• The study identified nuanced effects based on gender, educational background, and the specific PIAs involved.

Conclusions:

• The DDU-GKY initiative plays a pivotal role in bridging the rural-urban skill gap in Gujarat.
• Findings offer key leverage points for policymakers and practitioners to optimize vocational training programs for greater impact.