Introductory Session
The convergence of promising minds in the realm of development, orchestrated in collaboration between the Young Professionals and the CISSA-Center for Innovation in Science and Social Action, unfolded at Sri Lakshmi Towers, Pulimoodu, Attingal on 14th November 2023 at 3.00 pm. The ambiance resonated with an air of anticipation as Sri. Sudheesh Kumar from CISSA graciously welcomed the professionals, setting the stage for the inaugural icebreaking session, elegantly facilitated by the erudite sociologist and proficient trainer, Dr. Sujith Edwin Perera and Sri. Pallippuram Jaya Kumar.
Focus Group Discussion
The gathering was honoured by the esteemed presence of Sri. V Muraleedharan, the Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs. In his introductory address, Sri. V Muraleedharan delved deep into the multifaceted challenges faced by both the youth and farming communities. His discourse artfully underscored the pivotal role that a conscientious youth could play in not just enriching the state but also fortifying their own prospects. Central to his address was the clarion call to transition from a mindset of job seeking to one of job creation, thereby empowering not only oneself but also the societal ecosystem they inhabit.
Drawing inspiration from the visionary stance of the Honourable Prime Minister, Sri. Narendra Modi, Sri. V Muraleedharan advocated for every young individual to embark on the entrepreneurial journey, leveraging the robust support provided by governmental and institutional frameworks. He emphasized the need for an intellectual shift towards prioritizing the identification and solution-centric approach to the challenges faced within one’s community, fostering a culture of innovative problem-solving and upskilling.
Citing illustrative examples, Sri. V Muraleedharan eloquently elucidated how a fervent aspiration towards entrepreneurship manifested in diverse domains, such as efficient waste management, showcasing the immense potential harboured within the realms of creativity and forward-thinking.
Dr. A Radhakrishnan Nair, in a thought-provoking address, prompted the assembled young minds to contemplate their role in the development tapestry of Attingal. With a keen focus on the ambitious ‘Skill India’ initiative, he underscored its significance in a nation that proudly harbours 35% of its populace as the youth. His impassioned narrative resonated with the imperative to empower this burgeoning demographic.
Highlighting the strategic and geographical significance of Attingal, Dr. Nair painted a vivid picture of the forthcoming surge in job opportunities. He meticulously outlined the impending arrival of monumental projects, notably the Vizhinjam seaport, auguring a wave of transformative changes in the region. This visionary foresight emphasized the imminent socioeconomic landscape awaiting Attingal, presenting an unparalleled canvas for the proactive involvement of its youth.
Dr. Nair’s discourse skilfully juxtaposed the impending infrastructural advancements with the pivotal role that upskilling initiatives could play in harnessing the potential of the region’s youth. His words wove a narrative of opportunity, urging the audience to envision their role as architects of change, poised at the threshold of a landscape ripe with possibilities.
The Audience Session
During the engaging focus group discussion, a diverse array of inquiries unfurled, each resonating with the aspirations and concerns of the vibrant gathering. Mr. Arun, a graduate in engineering ignited the discussion by querying the spectrum of job prospects within logistics and supply chain management, particularly delving into the burgeoning contractual job opportunities in this domain.
Following suit, Ms. Sruthi, a proficient postgraduate in biotechnology, earnestly voiced the prevalent issue of widespread youth migration to foreign shores. Her impassioned plea centred on the pivotal role the government could play in curbing this exodus by enhancing domestic job prospects, compelling the youth to envision a future within the bounds of their homeland.
Mr. Vishnu, a resilient BTech graduate-turned-entrepreneur, candidly shared his post-pandemic job pursuit challenges, which catalyzed his entrepreneurial journey. Emphasizing the necessity for improved employment avenues, he notably highlighted the dearth of public sanitation facilities in the region, underlining an area that warrants immediate attention.
The forum further echoed the plight of Mr. Arun, a BSc Computer Science alumnus grappling with the perpetual evolution of technology. His inquiry resonated deeply as he sought guidance on navigating the maze of continuous upskilling, considering the swiftly changing landscape rendering certain aspects of his degree less applicable in today’s tech-driven world.
Mr. Vishnu, a Marine Engineer working in the Merchant Navy has highlighted the need to start a training program for the youths in Fire and Safety which is a very important trade required for Sea Ports like Vizhinjam.
Adv. Sujith, a young practicing advocate from Attingal has highlighted the need for technical and professional courses on the basis of the burgeoning opportunities coming up in the district and called for the opening up of the campus of the Central University of Kerala at Attingal to start the courses.
Adding a community perspective, the Attingal Municipality Councillor steered the dialogue towards the latent tourism potential within and around the Attingal region. He articulated a vision that encompassed harnessing the allure of the Vamanapuram River, igniting discussions on strategic plans to leverage this natural asset for tourism development.
The session burgeoned into a melting pot of ideas, aspirations, and concerns, weaving a tapestry reflective of the dynamic aspirations and challenges faced by the youth of Attingal. Each query painted a canvas of opportunity, beckoning for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts towards a more empowered, enriched community fabric.
Follow up Suggested
*Initiate a WhatsApp collective to cultivate and refine ideas, welcoming kindred spirits to contribute and enhance the proposed concepts.
*Propose tailored training programs aimed at enhancing skill sets (upskilling) for graduates in engineering, computer studies, and allied fields, complemented by practical project integration.
*Delve into comprehensive training outlines encompassing logistics, fire safety, and trades pertinent to the imminent opportunities within the Vizhinjam port domain.
*Develop an intricate blueprint aimed at harnessing the untapped potential of the Vamanapuram River and its surrounding environs, focusing on eco-tourism endeavours, while also spotlighting the historical landmarks and cultural heritage sites in Attingal for heritage tourism initiatives.
Concluding the Discussion
The venerable Minister, Sri. V Muraleedharan eloquently addressed the myriad queries, emphasizing the abundance of upskilling courses and opportunities offered by the Government of India. The profound insights resonated deeply, illuminating pathways for the eager audience to navigate the evolving landscape of skill development. Sri. V Muraleedharan has suggested that project proposals on the suggestions made may be prepared so that they may be taken to appropriate authorities for further action. The young professionals can individually or collectively work to realize these ideas.
With the curtain drawing close to this illuminating interaction, Sri. Sudheesh Kumar, representing CISSA, took the stage to expound upon the imperative of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). His impassioned discourse elucidated the pressing need for these organizations and outlined their role in bolstering crop yields among existing farmers. Sri. Kumar fervently detailed how every individual present had the potential to metamorphose into a catalyst for agricultural growth, both on a small and large scale. He meticulously outlined the manifold aids and subsidies provided by the central government, paving the way for each attendee to become a stakeholder in the agricultural sphere.
The ambiance was charged with an infectious vibrancy, brimming with the collective energy of approximately 60 individuals. Their eagerness to absorb, contribute, and chart new horizons encapsulated the spirit of collaboration and progress that permeated throughout the gathering.
