Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Knowledge Economy Mission (KKEM), an initiative by the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (K-DISC) under the Government of Kerala, has joined hands with Coursera, a leading global online learning platform, to equip the state’s youth with industry-relevant skills. The collaboration aims to train 30 lakh individuals and create 20 lakh jobs by 2026, focusing on building a skilled workforce aligned with the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.
The program goes beyond providing employment opportunities, aiming to establish a robust talent pipeline that bridges the gap between education and industry needs, fostering sustainable and inclusive growth. All learners under the initiative will gain access to 40 virtual academies covering key domains such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, cloud computing, cybersecurity, creative design, logistics and supply chain, and digital marketing.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted that the upskilling efforts under KKEM would enhance job prospects for the youth while commending the initiative’s efforts in addressing employment challenges. State Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal reiterated Kerala’s longstanding commitment to education and skill development, describing the partnership as a progressive step in equipping the workforce for a dynamic job market.
Coursera’s Chief Marketing Officer, Tim Hannan, emphasized the importance of collaboration between governments, educators, and industries in creating a skilled workforce and unlocking growth opportunities. He noted that this initiative would make learning accessible to all, strengthening communities and fostering globally competitive talent.
Thomas Isaac, former Finance Minister and current Chief Advisor of KKEM, stated that the partnership embodies the mission’s vision of building a future-ready Kerala. By offering globally recognized credentials and specialized training, the program aims to empower individuals for a technology-driven economy while advancing Kerala’s employment goals.
