Empowering Youth Through Education: Building Self-Dependence for a Thriving Sikkim

Empowering Youth Through Education: Building Self-Dependence for a Thriving Sikkim

By Dr Jagannath Patnaik

Unemployment growth is a significant concern in many countries around the world. In India, this issue is further exacerbated by the high dependence on government jobs. The mindset of individuals needs to change to address this problem effectively.

One of the primary reasons for the heavy reliance on government jobs is the sheer number of applications for such positions. With a large population and limited opportunities in the Government sector, competition for government jobs is fierce. This is particularly true in the state of Sikkim, where the percentage of government jobs is higher compared to other states in India.

However, the Indian economy also boasts a thriving private sector, with numerous multinational and local companies. These companies have the potential to create employment opportunities. Unfortunately, the frequent job changes among individuals hinder the growth of companies. Many employees are inclined to switch jobs solely for monetary reasons, disregarding the potential for personal and professional growth within a company.

To combat these issues, a shift in mindset is necessary. Money should not be the sole criteria for job selection. Individuals must focus on developing a sense of ownership towards their work, irrespective of its scale. The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has implemented schemes to promote employment generation and self-employment. These initiatives aim to instill confidence in individuals to explore self-employment opportunities and create employment for others.

The high unemployment rate in India and the dependence on government jobs highlight the need for a change in mindset. Individuals should pursue jobs based on the potential for growth, rather than solely focusing on monetary benefits. The government’s schemes on employment generation and self-employment aim to instill confidence and encourage individuals to become self-employed, thus contributing to overall employment growth.

In Sikkim, the reliance on government jobs is prominent due to its smaller population and limited resources compared to other states in India. However, promoting education in private institutions can help alleviate this dependence. Scholarships provided to local youth for studying BA, BCOM, and allied traditional programs have inadvertently reinforced this reliance on government jobs. To foster self-dependence and promote holistic growth in the state, more students should consider studying in private institutions.

Private universities in Sikkim primarily focus on professional education and skill development, preparing students to be job-ready and enter various sectors of the economy. By diversifying their educational choices beyond traditional programs, students can develop a broad mindset that is not limited to government jobs. This shift towards private institutions will create a more diverse and skilled workforce, attracting more investment and development opportunities to the state.

Furthermore, embracing diverse career options and cultivating a mindset of self-dependence will foster innovation and progress in Sikkim. Individuals who are open to exploring new avenues and seizing entrepreneurial opportunities can contribute to the overall growth and development of the state. Moreover, this shift will help reduce the burden on government jobs, ultimately improving the employment scenario in Sikkim.

In conclusion, empowering youth through education is crucial in building self-dependence and reducing the heavy reliance on government jobs in Sikkim. By encouraging students to pursue education in private institutions, they will be better equipped for the job market and contribute to the overall progress of the state. With a diverse and skilled workforce, Sikkim can attract more investment, promote sustainable development, and create a thriving economy that benefits all its citizens.

About Author:

Dr. Jagannath Patnaik is a highly accomplished and influential figure in the field of education in India. Currently serving as the Vice Chancellor of ICFAI University Sikkim, Ex-Officio Member of the Sikkim Education Reforms Commission by the Government of Sikkim, Vice President of the Confederation of Indian Universities in New Delhi, and Member of the Governing Council for the Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations. Furthermore, Dr. Patnaik serves as the Vice President of the East Governing Council of the United Nations Global Compact Network India in New Delhi representing the Eastern Region.