CII Kerala organized Kerala Skills Conclave 2012 focusing on the theme bridging the Skill Gap held on 22nd August, 2012 at Thiruvananthapuram. In his presidential address, Mr S Ramadorai, Advisor to the Prime Minister on National Skill Development Council said that collective action for skill development will lead to economic progress on multiple fronts and this should be seen as a social tool for peace and prosperity.

The country is looking at a target of 500 million by 2022. The National Skill Development Council is engaging 10 most populous States to achieve this target. “Government must be enablers and should invest in ecosystems where PPP models are attractive for industry. Industry engagement with vocational training has to move from CSR to a core business strategy. Cluster based approach is another strategy for skill development”, he added.

In India, a PPP model is being created through Sector Skill Councils or SSC for different sector. Kerala is known for its high quality manpower but to leverage this advantage, the State will need to invest in training infrastructure.

He expressed his optimism on Kerala’s success in creating an integrated, outcome based skill development programme to make the State a talent hub. Government Officials and representatives from various sectors like Banking & Financial Services, Healthcare, Tourism & Hospitality, Retail, IT & ITeS participated in a panel discussion on ‘Bridging the Skill Gap’ to identity the issues in getting skilled manpower in Kerala. Mr P K Abdu Rabb, Minister for Education, Government of Kerala delivered the special address. Mr Shibu Baby John, Minister for Labour & Rehabilitation, Government of Kerala delivered Valedictory Address