Why are Most Indian Youth Unemployed? The Singaporean Perspective on Education and Employment
The employment challenges faced by Indian youth often stem from a combination of outdated educational systems, forced specialization, and economic realities. This article delves into the reasons behind their unemployment, offering a comprehensive analysis rooted in the educational and socio-economic landscape of India.
Outdated Education and Lack of Specialization
It is a common belief that a strong academic record guarantees employability, but recent studies suggest that this is far from the truth. The current school education system in India is deeply flawed, with a focus on rote learning rather than conceptual understanding. This is particularly evident in the subjects taught, which are mostly static and rigid, covering topics like social sciences, computers, mathematics, and languages up to the 10th grade. Many students are unaware of the vast array of subjects and opportunities available to them, such as finance, how the economy functions, tax systems, various industries, and the latest technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and Blockchain.
Forced Specialization and Career Confusion
Many students are forced to choose majors such as Chartered Accountancy (CA), Bachelor of Technology (BTech), or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) even before they know what they truly want to pursue. A significant number of students struggle to align their interests with their chosen career paths, with many excelling in other fields. For instance, students who opt for engineering or an MBA due to parental pressure may find it difficult to excel in technical or business development roles, potentially undermining their potential in alternative streams.
Economic and Location Constraints
The realities of the Indian job market place significant economic and geographical challenges before candidates. Since 2007, there have been no pay revisions, leading to a stagnation in entry-level salaries. This, combined with high inflation rates, means that fresh graduates often earn between 2-3 Lakhs per annum (LPA). Moreover, employment opportunities are concentrated in major cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, and Hyderabad. For individuals living far from these areas, or those who cannot afford to relocate, these opportunities may be unattainable. Additionally, many students carry the burden of educational loans or the responsibility of supporting their families, further complicating their pursuit of employment.
Unbalanced Salary Distribution
There is a stark disparity in salary distribution between college students. A student from a top-tier college may receive extraordinary packages that would take an average graduate from another college at least seven to eight years to achieve. This inequity influences graduates to rely heavily on on-campus placements, which often offer more competitive pay packages, while off-campus job drives remain uncertain and less reliable. Many graduates spend years seeking government jobs, as they have grown up expecting such positions. Due to socio-economic reasons, many families are hesitant to send their children to major cities for fear of potential negative influences, including drug usage, social outings, and feelings of instability.
Conclusion
The employment challenges faced by Indian youth are multifaceted, involving both educational inadequacies and socio-economic realities. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort to modernize the education system, promote a culture of specialization, and tackle economic disparities. By doing so, India can better prepare its youth for the workforce and reduce unemployment rates.
Final Thoughts
This comprehensive analysis aims to shed light on the challenges faced by Indian youth. By understanding the root causes, we can take steps towards creating a more inclusive and equitable job market for all.