Kerala Launches Major MSME Skill Development Drive to Enhance Global Competitiveness
In a significant initiative aimed at boosting productivity and global competitiveness of Kerala's micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Directorate of Industries and Commerce (DIC) has announced a comprehensive skill development program. This ambitious drive is being implemented under the World Bank-assisted Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme, marking a strategic push to empower local entrepreneurs.
Ambitious Training Targets and Practical Approach
The program sets an ambitious target of training 6,000 entrepreneurs by the conclusion of the 2026-27 financial year. Unlike traditional classroom-based training sessions, this initiative emphasizes a practical, hands-on approach with sector-specific skill development. The curriculum is specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by MSMEs in today's competitive market environment.
This groundbreaking initiative is being executed in collaboration with the Kerala Institute for Entrepreneurship Development (KIED), ensuring expert guidance and industry-relevant content. The training modules have been carefully crafted to provide immediate practical value to participating entrepreneurs.
Comprehensive Training Modules Covering Critical Business Areas
The program features several specialized modules:
- Export-Import Procedures Workshop: A three-day intensive workshop covering documentation requirements, customs regulations, shipping procedures, and the roles of key agencies including the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO).
- Finance and Compliance Training: This module simplifies complex GST and income tax regulations while introducing advanced costing methods to help entrepreneurs optimize their financial management.
- Quality Certification Guidance: Entrepreneurs will receive expert assistance on obtaining various quality certifications that can enhance their market credibility and access to global supply chains.
- Digital Transformation Modules: Comprehensive training in digital marketing strategies, e-commerce platforms, search engine optimization (SEO), and AI-based automation tools to help businesses leverage technology for growth.
- Operations and Management Training: Modules covering logistics optimization, supply chain management, labor law compliance, and strategic human resource planning.
Accessible and Demand-Driven Implementation
The training program is being offered completely free of cost to eligible entrepreneurs, removing financial barriers to participation. Scheduled to commence in the first week of February, the courses have been designed based on actual demand from registered entrepreneurs, ensuring relevance and immediate applicability.
Officials emphasized that the curriculum has been carefully aligned with the specific needs identified through consultations with the MSME community. This demand-based approach ensures that the training addresses real-world challenges faced by Kerala's entrepreneurs, particularly those related to expanding into international markets and adopting modern business practices.
This comprehensive skill development initiative represents a strategic investment in Kerala's MSME sector, which plays a crucial role in the state's economy. By equipping entrepreneurs with practical skills and knowledge about modern technologies and global business practices, the program aims to significantly enhance the competitiveness of local businesses in both domestic and international markets.
