IMPHAL | Babina Group chairman Thangjam Dhabali Singh says skill-based education can expand employment opportunities for young people. Amid concerns over unemployment in Manipur, entrepreneur and Babina Group of Companies chairman and managing director Thangjam Dhabali Singh has urged young people to pursue skill-based training alongside formal education.

Singh made the remarks at a certificate and appointment letter distribution ceremony for the ninth batch of a professional security training programme at the Home Land Academy, Assam Rifles Sanjeevani Complex, North AOC, Imphal. The trainees underwent training at the Home Academy of Tactical Security and Fire Safety under an initiative of the Inspector General Assam Rifles (South).

Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Singh said Manipur was facing a serious employment challenge. He claimed that around five lakh educated youths were seeking jobs, while the state’s capacity to provide government employment was limited to around one lakh.

Against this backdrop, he stressed the need for greater emphasis on entrepreneurship and skill development. “Every youth should try to excel in at least one skill that can generate income,” Singh said, adding that academic qualifications alone may not be enough to address the employment challenge.

Citing countries such as Japan, South Korea and the United States, Singh said vocational and skill-based training could contribute to creating employment opportunities. He also referred to the Indian government’s increasing focus on skill development and encouraged young people in Manipur to make use of available training programmes and opportunities.

Singh praised the Homeland Academy for providing professional security training, saying such programmes could help young people acquire practical skills and improve their employment prospects. The event highlighted the growing emphasis on vocational training and industry-oriented skills as part of efforts to expand employment opportunities for young people in Manipur.