Tamil Nadu launches major digital skilling initiative for 10,000 students from construction worker families

Tamil Nadu has unveiled a large-scale digital skilling initiative aimed at empowering 10,000 students from construction worker families with industry-ready capabilities. The Tamil Nadu Academy of Construction has invited bids to deliver online skill-upgradation programmes designed to bridge the gap between traditional education and the rapidly changing demands of the digital labour market.

The initiative will offer 40 comprehensive courses across high-growth technology domains and essential vocational trades. Students will gain access to advanced digital subjects such as artificial intelligence, data engineering, full stack development, AR and VR development and cloud server administration. Alongside these tech-driven pathways, the programme will also include NCVET certified vocational courses covering electrician, fitter, draughtsman and welder disciplines, ensuring a complete mix of digital and practical skills.

Officials emphasised that the programme specifically targets students from economically vulnerable construction worker families who are registered with the Tamil Nadu Construction Workers Welfare Board. The curriculum will be delivered over six months and is structured to help students develop marketable competencies that align with industry expectations. Periodic in-person sessions will also be arranged to help students clarify doubts and strengthen their understanding of each module.

The Tamil Nadu government has been consistently supporting the education of construction workers’ children by offering financial assistance from school to college. Students who secure admission to IITs or pursue medicine already receive up to fifty thousand rupees in support. This new initiative, announced earlier by Chief Minister M K Stalin, reflects the state’s continued commitment to improving long term livelihood opportunities for these families.

Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Construction Workers Welfare Board continues to train thousands of workers in trades such as carpentry, masonry and plumbing. Workers undergoing training receive a daily stipend and financial support to purchase machinery and begin small enterprises. With more than three lakh registered workers across the state, officials believe that equipping the younger generation with digital and vocational skills will create sustained economic advancement. The new skilling initiative is expected to open pathways to future ready careers for students entering the digital and industrial workforce.