The Skill Kerala Global Summit 2025, held in Kochi on August 29, spotlighted the urgent need to bridge the gap between higher education and industry requirements. Kerala’s Higher Education Minister, R. Bindu, underlined the state’s vision of equipping students with the right mix of academic knowledge and employable skills in a rapidly changing job market.

At the summit, the minister highlighted ongoing reforms that reorient higher education to match global standards. A key initiative is the rollout of multidisciplinary four-year degree programs, offering students flexibility to combine subjects and explore cross-domain knowledge. This aligns with the broader goals of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which emphasizes holistic and skill-based learning.

The state government is also pushing for greater collaboration between academia and industry. The “Industry on Campus” program is being introduced to allow students to directly interact with corporate partners, participate in real-time projects, and gain exposure to workplace dynamics while pursuing their studies. Such initiatives are expected to significantly enhance employability and prepare graduates for technology-driven roles.

Another major focus area at the summit was the integration of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity into mainstream higher education. Programs such as ASAP Kerala (Additional Skill Acquisition Program) and the Young Innovators Program are already nurturing talent in these fields, providing students with practical training and entrepreneurial exposure. By fostering these skills, the state aims to create a new generation of innovators ready to thrive in an AI-powered economy.

Delegates at the summit agreed that Kerala’s approach of combining multidisciplinary education with skill-oriented programs could serve as a model for other states. By prioritizing both academic excellence and employability, the Skill Kerala Global Summit 2025 signaled a decisive step towards reshaping the state’s higher education landscape for the future.