Minister for Higher Education and Social Justice R. Bindu reaffirmed the Kerala government’s commitment to building a knowledge-based state and said that structured training and employment platforms are being created to help the youth enter the workforce with confidence.
“In shaping Kerala into a modern knowledge-based society, it is this government’s firm commitment to provide youth with access to meaningful employment through proper training and opportunities,” the minister said while inaugurating ‘Aspire 2026’, the New Year edition of the job fair series organized by ASAP Kerala.
The job fair was held at Christ College, Irinjalakuda on Friday and brought together more than 30 leading companies and more than 1,500 job seekers. Nearly 200 candidates secured employment during the drive, turning the event into a gateway of opportunity for the youth of Irinjalakuda and surrounding regions.
Bridging the skills gap
The Minister said that skill training tailored to the abilities of the students is being systematically provided across the campuses. “Providing job-focused skills training on campuses is essential. One of our core missions is to bridge the skills gap between education and employment,” she noted.
A key highlight of the event was the exchange of an MoU between ASAP Kerala and Infosys. Under the agreement, engineering students will get a 16-week free internship with Infosys, which will offer them valuable industry and hands-on experience. Christ College was also awarded the Best Performing Institution award in association with ASAP Kerala.
The event also featured ‘Nareechakra – Penkaruthu’, a special initiative by ASAP Kerala aimed at helping career interrupted women re-enter the workforce.
Published – 27 Feb 2026 20:40 IST
