Dr. Raju Narayana Swamy has called for urgent action to address the growing issue of skill obsolescence in India. Speaking at an event in Kozhikode organized by the Indian Society for Training and Development (ISTD),he emphasized the need for continuous training and reskilling to ensure that organizations remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment.
Highlighting the impact of technological advancements and industrial shifts, Dr. Swamy pointed out that skill obsolescence is now a daily challenge for the workforce. He urged organizations to prioritize ongoing training,retraining, and redeployment of human resources. “The ability of institutions to adapt quickly to change will determine their long-term success,” he stated,underlining importance of evolving into agile systems that can swiftly capitalize on new opportunities .
Dr. Swamy stressed that building such adaptive institutions requires significant investment in human capital. He noted the necessity for developing advanced skills that align with the demands of emerging industries. The current skill shortages and talent deficits, he warned,are significant barriers to India’s economic recovery and growth potential.
Addressing the demographic advantages of India,Dr. Swamy identified manpower and technology as key drivers of industrial progress . He argued that effectively harnessing the nation’s large workforce is crucial. This involves ensuring proper training,skill enhancement,and knowledge transfer across various sectors . He also pointed out that India is experiencing a demographic shift that necessitates robust capacity-building mechanisms to support this transition.
In addition to workforce development,Dr. Swamy highlighted need to strengthen the capabilities of social sector. He argued that improved institutional performance in this area is vital for ensuring equitable service delivery and fostering social justice. Such improvements are essential for achieving inclusive development and long-term national progress.
Concluding his address, Dr. Swamy championed the concept of lifelong learning. He encouraged organizations to cultivate a culture of continuous feedback and knowledge sharing among employees. Quoting Benjamin Franklin, he remarked,“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” This philosophy, he argued, is crucial for fostering an environment where learning is prioritized.
Shoukat Ali Eroth,the president of ISTD, presided over the event, which gathered professionals and stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the future of training and development in India. The discussions underscored pressing need for a strategic approach to skill development in order to navigate the challenges posed by a dynamic economic landscape.
