Shillong, April 26: A youth skilling initiative supported by UNIQLO India Private Limited and Avenues Meghalaya has certified more than 160 participants in Shillong, marking the completion of its first training batches aimed at enhancing job readiness in the Northeast.
The Employability Accelerator Programme concluded with a certification event attended by industry representatives, educators and trainees. The participants, comprising college students and unemployed youth from diverse communities, completed an 80-hour training module focused on workplace competencies.
The initiative comes against the backdrop of persistent concerns over employability levels in India, where only around 45–50 per cent of graduates are considered job-ready. The gap is more pronounced in the Northeast, where access to industry exposure and structured placement pathways remains limited. The programme seeks to address this by offering practical training in communication, teamwork, professional conduct and interview preparedness.
At the event, Meghalaya minister Wailadmiki Shylla emphasised the importance of discipline and continuous learning in a competitive job market, stating that sustained growth depends on qualities such as commitment and consistency.
Representing the corporate sector, Kenji Inoue described the initiative as part of a broader social responsibility effort, encouraging participants to pursue continuous self-improvement. Kaneko Yuichiro added that the programme aligns with long-term goals of fostering globally competitive talent while supporting local communities.
Organisers noted that while the Northeast has a strong base of educated youth, opportunities remain fragmented. Kamalika Deka said the initiative is designed to bridge this gap by connecting candidates with employability-oriented skills.
Participants reported noticeable improvements in confidence and communication, with several stating that the training helped them prepare for real-world professional environments.
The event also featured cultural performances reflecting the diversity of the region, with participation from institutions across states including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram. Organisers said the programme offers a scalable model for addressing employability challenges, with plans to expand following the successful completion of its initial phase.
