The Kotak Education Foundation has launched a new initiative called Skill2Win, designed to prepare Mumbai’s youth with the career readiness skills needed to thrive in today’s job market. The programme focuses on practical training, workplace behaviour, communication, and industry-specific skills, helping young people from underserved backgrounds to secure meaningful employment.
I am writing about this because youth employment is one of the most pressing challenges in India today. Many young people complete their education but still struggle to get jobs because they lack soft skills and workplace readiness. I feel Skill2Win is a timely intervention, as it bridges the gap between education and employment. By highlighting this initiative, I want to show how targeted programmes can transform lives, especially for young people in urban areas like Mumbai who face competition and limited opportunities. It also reminds us that education is not just about passing exams but also about preparing students for the real world. If such initiatives are expanded, they can help reduce unemployment and build a skilled workforce for the future.
What is Skill2Win?
Skill2Win is a structured career readiness programme launched by the Kotak Education Foundation. It aims to train youth in areas that are often overlooked in traditional education, such as:
- Communication and presentation skills
- Workplace etiquette and behaviour
- Interview preparation and confidence building
- Problem-solving and teamwork
- Industry-specific skills relevant to emerging job markets
Why the Programme is Needed
According to several reports, one of the biggest hurdles for Indian youth is not just finding jobs but being job-ready. While academic qualifications are important, employers often seek candidates who can adapt quickly to workplace culture and contribute effectively. In cities like Mumbai, where thousands compete for limited opportunities, skills like communication and teamwork become deciding factors. Skill2Win directly addresses this gap by giving students a platform to practice and refine these abilities.
Impact on Mumbai Youth
The programme specifically targets young people from disadvantaged communities, many of whom are first-generation learners. By providing them with structured training, Skill2Win gives these students a chance to compete on equal footing with others. This can help them access careers in sectors like retail, IT, finance, and healthcare, which are rapidly growing in Mumbai.
Kotak Education Foundation’s Role
The Kotak Education Foundation has been working for years to empower youth through education and skill-building. With Skill2Win, it continues its mission to not just educate but also create pathways for employability. The focus is on long-term impact — equipping young people with life skills that go beyond their first job and help them throughout their careers.
