How will FedEx Express skill nearly 400 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) students? Well, the subsidiary of FedEx Corp, the express transportation company, has teamed up with Magic Bus India Foundation, an NGO, and created an intensive 75-day curriculum. This will be used to upskill youth in leading-edge cloud computing and allied technologies, along with transferable life and employability skills.
In addition to addressing the digital skills gap and employability challenges in India, the programme will prioritise enrolling female graduates from underserved communities in Hyderabad. This initiative is in line with the Indian government’s mission to nurture tech talent across the country.
The objective is to create a transformative impact by enabling youth to acquire valuable skills, secure employment and achieve economic stability. By empowering young people to make informed career and life choices, the programme enhances their individual agency, encouraging them to support their families, move out of poverty, and become role models and change agents within their communities.
The programme will comprise in-person sessions conducted by expert technical and life skills trainers, facilitating a collaborative learning experience through group activities and teamwork. It will also include periodic employer-engagement sessions with industry and sector experts, providing youth with practical insights into various entry-level IT/ITeS jobs.
Additionally, it will offer mentorship to help youth strengthen their professional profiles, and interview- preparation skills.
The students will participate in an industry-relevant project at the end of the course, which will give them an opportunity to showcase their skills and earn a global certification.
Once the students complete the course, they will be given placement support for entry-level jobs in IT/ITeS sector. Post-placement support will also be provided to ensure long-term job satisfaction and performance in the workplace.
Nitin Navneet Tatiwala, vice president marketing and air network, Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa, FedEx, emphasised how “developing a rich pool of skilled professionals is essential for driving innovation and growth.” According to him, “Our support not only prepares the youth for immediate job opportunities but also instills the adaptability and knowledge required to thrive in today’s competitive professional landscape. This initiative reinforces our belief that by nurturing youth skills, we are creating the leaders and innovators of tomorrow, ensuring sustained progress and growth.”
FedEx recognises “the immense potential of India’s youth and their crucial role in shaping the future.”
Jayant Rastogi, global CEO, Magic Bus India Foundation, reveals that the Foundation is “committed to implementing our shared vision with FedEx to empower youth from underserved communities through our digital skilling programme, preparing them for the thriving IT/ITeS sector. This collaboration marks a significant step in developing a future-ready workforce, ensuring that these young individuals are prepared for the evolving job market. By equipping them with life and employability skills, we aim to empower them on their journey towards economic empowerment.”
