Karnataka to Establish Skill University at Sandur
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced the establishment of a new Skill University in Sandur, aimed at transforming the State into a leading hub for technical education and workforce development. The announcement was made at the Bengaluru Skill Summit (BSS) 2025, where the government also unveiled a roadmap to skill 30 lakh youth by 2032.
Focus on Skill-Based Education
The proposed Skill University at Sandur will serve as a dedicated institution for vocational and technical education. It will focus on advanced skill training, curriculum innovation, and collaboration with industries to address emerging employment sectors. The university is expected to play a key role in aligning education with the evolving needs of AI, automation, green energy, and Industry 4.0.
Seven-Year Strategic Plan
To support the initiative, the government has approved a seven-year strategic plan with an investment of ₹4,432 crore. This plan will enhance the State’s existing skilling ecosystem by upgrading Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), expanding short-term and long-term courses, and integrating global best practices. Siddaramaiah highlighted that Karnataka had already established 100 new ITIs and upgraded 104 ITI buildings between 2013 and 2018.
Boost to Employment and Inclusivity
The new university and associated training centres will boost job-oriented education, particularly for rural and underprivileged youth. The State also plans to raise women’s enrolment in ITIs to 33 per cent, strengthening inclusivity in technical education. In addition, the International Migration Centre–Karnataka (IMC–K) will help create more global job opportunities for trained professionals.
Exam Oriented Facts
- Karnataka will establish a Skill University in Sandur.
- The State plans to skill 30 lakh youth by 2032.
- ₹4,432 crore has been allocated for the seven-year skill mission.
- Women’s enrolment in ITIs targeted at 33 per cent.
Bengaluru Skill Summit 2025 Highlights
The Bengaluru Skill Summit 2025, held from November 4–6 under the theme ‘Workforce 2030: Scale, Systems, Synergy,’ emphasised workforce innovation and skill expansion. Karnataka, which contributes around ₹4.11-lakh crore to the national GDP, aims to strengthen its position as a global talent hub through sustained investment in education, training, and technology-driven employment.