Mere degree doesn’t prepare for market, that’s the fix we need: FM Nirmala Sitharaman

In an interview with The Indian Express, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed concerns raised by India's youth following the Jantar Mantar protest. The protest's issues were not limited to the NEET paper leak, but also included concerns about employment and the education-to-employment gap. Sitharaman acknowledged the diverse range of issues faced by young people, noting that they were idealistic and would take on any perceived wrongdoings.

A significant challenge was the inadequate preparation of graduates for the job market and entrepreneurship. Courses did not equip students with the necessary skills or knowledge to succeed in either employment or running their own businesses. Developed countries offered a more comprehensive approach, providing young individuals with the option to pursue higher education or technical studies, as well as guidance on managing their skills and business operations.

The current system produced degree-holding graduates, but they were not ready for the marketplace. This gap in preparation extended to government schools, which the FM suggested needed a structural overhaul. Quality teaching, adequate infrastructure, and the availability of teachers who could adapt to local languages were essential. However, these changes required a shift in mindset and substantial investment in government schools.