‘Vijnana Keralam’ to Connect Youth with Global Job Opportunities

Sharjah: The Kerala Government has launched an initiative called Vijnana Keralam (Knowledge Kerala), aimed at preparing the state's youth for high-quality employment opportunities across the world. As part of this growing mission, a team led by former Finance Minister Dr. Thomas Isaac recently visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to strengthen ties with international employers and to engage with the Malayali diaspora.

The delegation held discussions with several leading companies in the UAE, including Galfar Mohammed Ali, Sobha Developers, Aster Medcity, and the Food and Beverages Association of UAE. These initial talks were centered on how Kerala can become a key source of skilled manpower by connecting global employment needs with local talent.

Vijnana Keralam, implemented through the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (K-DISC), is designed to make Kerala a global knowledge-based employment hub. The project brings together employers, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and skilled professionals under a single framework. It aims to scientifically connect the experience and job networks of expatriates with Kerala’s youth to open up career opportunities abroad. Already, data from over five lakh young men and women have been collected to create a strong base for the program.

The Kerala Government is also focusing on expanding skill development programs that will help young people gain training for jobs offering high wages both in India and abroad. These training initiatives are meant to create a generation of confident, job-ready youth who can succeed in diverse sectors such as healthcare, IT, construction, education, and more. In the coming months, a Gulf Job Fair will be held in Thrissur on July 12 and 13, 2025, to directly connect job seekers with employers. Additionally, an International Skill Summit will be organised on August 29 and 30, 2025, at Hyatt Bolgatty in Kochi, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss the future of skills and global job trends.

In a parallel cultural and educational effort, a seminar was held in Sharjah under the joint leadership of the Malayalam Mission and K-DISC. The event took place at the Mathrubhumi Conclave venue in Sharjah Expo Centre and was based on the theme “Mother Tongue Learning and Knowledge Society: The Role and Relevance.” Dr. Thomas Isaac and Dr. P. Sarin participated in the seminar and emphasised the critical role language plays in shaping an informed, intellectually strong society. Dr. Isaac noted that language is not just a tool of communication but a foundation for creating inclusive and meaningful development. He said that the mother tongue helps build the intellectual and cultural strength needed for a modern, progressive Kerala.

Dr. Sarin further explained how colleges and alumni groups are working with K-DISC to move towards the vision of a “Job-Ready Kerala.” He said the project represents a clear blueprint for Kerala’s future by providing the training and direction required for diverse job sectors. The seminar was organized with the active involvement of all seven chapters of the Malayalam Mission in the UAE—Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Representatives from each chapter, along with teachers, students, and other community members, participated in the event. There was an open discussion session where participants spoke about the government's commitment to the Vijnana Keralam project and its wide-ranging vision. Dr. Isaac and Dr. Sarin responded to questions and clarified doubts raised during the session.

The seminar was chaired by UAE Malayalam Mission Coordinator K. L. Gopi. Sharjah Chapter Convener Sreekumari Antony delivered the welcome address, and Abu Dhabi Chapter President Safarulla Palpatti offered the vote of thanks. The event saw an impressive turnout and concluded with a colorful cultural evening featuring performances from all seven chapters. A Malayalam Mission souvenir shop was also set up at the seminar venue and was jointly inaugurated by Dr. Thomas Isaac and Dr. Sarin.