Karnataka government to launch employability assessment for STEM graduates in Kalaburagi

In an effort to bridge the employability gap among graduates in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the government of Karnataka will launch a structured, assessment-led model to evaluate and enhance job readiness among STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates. The initiative will begin with a pilot assessment drive in Kalaburagi on August 9 and 10.

Addressing a press conference at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kalaburagi on July 29, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and Kalaburagi district In-charge Priyank Kharge said the initiative is being rolled out under the State’s flagship Nipuna Karnataka programme, through the Department of IT/BT, and the Karnataka Skill Development Corporation (KSDC). The effort is also supported by Kalaburagi MP Radhakrishna Doddamani.

The pilot programme will target 2,500 STEM students in Kalaburagi in the first phase. Based on its success, the model will be adapted and scaled across other districts, making Karnataka the first State in India to launch a data-driven, localised employability assessment programme tailored specifically for STEM graduates.

“This is not just another skilling programme. We are introducing a diagnostic-first approach. Candidates will undergo a 90-minute online test to assess aptitude, communication, digital literacy and behavioural readiness. The assessments will be conducted by Unstop, a national engagement and hiring platform, and each participant will receive a personalised skill-gap report along with an Individual Development Plan (IDP). This will allow for further training and placements to be customised based on individual needs, shifting away from a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Mr. Priyank.

The assessments will be held at Shetty Institute of Technology in Kalaburagi. There will be four slots each day (10 am, 12 noon, 2.30 pm, and 4.30 pm). Candidates must report at the venue by 9 a.m.

Registration opens on July 29, and will remain open until August 7, via this URL, or by scanning a QR code. Slots will be allotted on a first-come, first-serve basis, with preference given to STEM graduates who had registered for the Kalaburagi Udyoga Mela held earlier this year. Assessment hall tickets will be issued via SMS and email on August 7 and 8.

The Minister noted that a recent analysis during the Udyog Mela showed that 70% of students scored below 50% in aptitude and 63% in communication skills. The pilot initiative is aimed at closing such gaps systematically and measurably.

The programme is also expected to improve hiring outcomes for employers by offering job-ready candidates, and enable educational institutions to better align their training with industry expectations.

“This initiative is not just about jobs, it is about holistic talent development and preparing our youth for the future,” the Minister said.

Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil, MLAs Allamprabhu Patil, M.Y. Patil, Kalaburagi Urban Development Authority Chairman Mazhar Alam Khan, Deputy Commissioner Fouzia Taranum, Police Commissioner S.D. Sharanappa, Superintendent of Police Adduru Srinivasulu were present.