FUEL SkillTech University, through its implementation of the NIPUNA Karnataka initiative in association with the Government of Karnataka and Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), is expanding access to industry-oriented future skills training for students across Karnataka.
The initiative has reached 568 students across three institutions in the state, helping them develop technical and employability skills to prepare for higher education, campus recruitment and employment opportunities in the technology sector.
The programme focuses on emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Core Java and Python, alongside aptitude and soft skills. Its training approach combines technical learning with practical skill development to help students strengthen their problem-solving, communication, interpersonal and interview skills.
Industry-Aligned Training to Prepare Students for Future Careers
A significant focus of the initiative is on students from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with the aim of expanding their access to relevant technology training and professional development opportunities.
Of the 568 students reached, 345 have completed training at KLS Vishwanathrao Deshpande Institute of Technology (VDIT), Haliyal, while 84 students from Shri Siddhalingeshwar B.C.A. College, Gokak, have benefited from the initiative.
Training is currently underway for 134 students at SECAB College of Engineering, Vijayapura, in Core Java and Python.
FUEL SkillTech University Emphasises Education-to-Employment Transition
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Ketan Deshpande, Founder of FUEL SkillTech University, said, “The transition from education to employment requires students to continuously build skills that reflect the changing needs of industry. Through NIPUNA Karnataka, we are bridging academia and industry to deliver future-oriented technical training alongside aptitude and employability development. We aim to equip students, irrespective of their background, with the skills and confidence to succeed in the digital economy and build an industry-ready workforce.”
Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, CEO of Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), said, “Initiatives such as NIPUNA Karnataka play an important role in strengthening the connection between academic institutions and the evolving requirements of the technology industry. By enabling students to gain exposure to emerging technologies alongside aptitude and employability skills, the programme is helping build a stronger, more industry-ready talent pool across Karnataka. Such industry-aligned skilling efforts are important to ensure that students are better prepared to participate in and contribute to the state’s growing digital economy.”
Participating Institutions Highlight the Benefits of Skills Training
A representative of KLS Vishwanathrao Deshpande Institute of Technology (VDIT), Haliyal, said, “The NIPUNA Karnataka initiative has brought valuable learning opportunities to our students, particularly those from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The training in Artificial Intelligence and employability skills has helped them strengthen their capabilities and confidence, giving them a stronger foundation to pursue meaningful career opportunities.”
A representative of Shri Siddhalingeshwar B.C.A. College, Gokak, said, “Connecting classroom learning with practical industry requirements is essential to preparing students for the workplace. Through NIPUNA Karnataka, our students are gaining exposure to relevant technical skills that can help them navigate recruitment processes and adapt to the expectations of a rapidly evolving technology sector.”
FUEL SkillTech University continues to support the development of an industry-ready workforce in Karnataka by aligning academic learning with industry requirements. Through initiatives such as NIPUNA Karnataka, the university aims to expand access to emerging technology training and employability development, helping young people prepare for opportunities in the digital economy.