EY GDS has joined hands with the ILP and Samagra Shikshana Karnataka (SSK) to launch the “Vritti Diksoochi” program.
This collaborative effort aims to provide detailed and sustainable career guidance to over 2.3 lakh students across several districts.
EY GD “Vritti Diksoochi”: Program Overview
The “Vritti Diksoochi” program, is designed to empower students in Grades 9 and 10 with essential career-related skills.
It goes beyond traditional academic learning, focusing on practical aspects that prepare students for their future careers.
EY GDS, ILP, and SSK have come together to address the critical need for career guidance in government schools.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) solidifies this impactful collaboration, emphasizing the commitment to student welfare.
Madhu Bangarappa, Hon’ble Minister for Primary & Secondary Education, Government of Karnataka, stated: “It is an honour to inaugurate this transformative program, which will play a vital role in shaping the future of our students across Karnataka.”
He added, “By providing career guidance, we are giving students the tools to thrive in the modern workforce and pursue higher education with confidence.”
Madhu further stated, “This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring quality education and equipping every student with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.”
“We look forward to the positive impact this program will have on students, teachers, and the wider community,” he concluded.
Gururaj Deshpande, EY GDS Client Technology Leader, stated: “The Career Compass initiative is more than just a programme; it’s our commitment to supporting future generations with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.”
He added, “It will help shape the future of education and workforce readiness in the Kalaburagi region, leading to a more confident graduating class with a clear understanding of their future opportunities.”
Key Objectives of Career Compass by EY GDS
Career Compass aims to provide personalized guidance to students, helping them explore various career options.
Trained career counsellors will engage with students, addressing their individual aspirations and challenges.
By encouraging higher education and equipping students with modern workforce skills, the program seeks to enhance employability.
Exposure to diverse career paths will empower students to make informed choices.
The success of Career Compass relies on collaboration among various stakeholders.
Department of Education: Ensuring integration of career guidance into the curriculum.
School Management and Teachers: Actively participating in student development.
Parents and Community: Supporting students’ career aspirations.
Rumi Mallick Mitra, EY GDS Corporate Responsibility leader, said: “We believe that education is the cornerstone of progress.”
He added, “By investing in this initiative, we’re not only supporting individual growth but also contributing to the collective advancement of our society.”
Rumi further said, “Aligned with the state educational policies and the Sustainable Development Goals, the Career Compass seeks to educate students on diverse career paths, foster 21st-century skills, and help them to take charge of their academic trajectories.”
Pramod Sridharamurthy, Secretary, ILP, said: “Our collaboration with EY GDS and the Karnataka State Education Department aims to equip students with the tools to make informed future decisions.”
He added, “These well-researched tools and resources will help students in their journey of self-awareness..”
“…and in identifying career choices in line with their interests, skills and aptitude,” he said.
“The aim is also to build capacities of teachers as career counsellors and build channels of access to other mentors,” said Pramod.
“Within the next three years, our goal is to strengthen the system’s capacity to sustain the program,” he added.
Pramod concluded by mentioning, “This effort will be in collaboration with the Department of Education, Government of Karnataka.”
Challenges Addressed
Many government schools lack dedicated career counsellors and mentors. Notably, Career Compass fills this gap by providing professional guidance to students.
Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds often lack exposure to diverse career options.
The program aims to level the playing field by offering equal opportunities to all.
Meanwhile, Career Compass seeks to provide trained career counsellors in all high schools.
These professionals will serve as a long-term support system for students, ensuring continuity beyond the program’s initial phase.
The program’s success will pave the way for wider adoption by the Karnataka state education department.
Potentially, all government school students in the state could benefit from similar career guidance initiatives.
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