In a significant step towards empowering the youth, Commissioner Nidhi Choudhari inaugurated the first Lighthouse Project in Mumbai at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Mulund. The project, initiated by the Department of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation (SEEID), Directorate of Vocational Education and Training (DVET), and Lighthouse Communities Foundation, is set to act as a guiding light for skill development.
Commissioner Choudhari emphasized the importance of developing essential skills alongside academic qualifications for success in the global market. Speaking at the inauguration, she highlighted the role of the foundation course in modern-day skill development.
The event witnessed the presence of key figures such as Digambar Dalvi, Director of Vocational Education and Training Directorate; Yogesh Patil, Director of Maharashtra Skill Development Board; Dr. Ganesh Natarajan, Chairman of Lighthouse Communities; Ruchi Mathur, CEO of Lighthouse Communities; and PD Mundhra, Co-founder and CEO of eClerx Services Limited.
Commissioner Choudhari outlined the project’s focus on providing training in spoken English and digital literacy to youth and young women. Instead of merely offering employment, the program aims to empower individuals to build sustainable careers.
Mr. Dalvi noted that the implementation of the lighthouse project follows an MoU signed last year. He highlighted its significance in helping students develop essential life skills.
Dr. Natarajan shared the ambitious goal of reaching one million students by 2030 through the Lighthouse project, emphasizing its potential to positively impact the lives of countless youths.
Mr. Mundhra expressed pride in the various activities undertaken by the Lighthouse Communities Foundation and its role in Mumbai. He highlighted the project’s potential to increase employment opportunities.
The Lighthouse Project, established at ITI, Mulund, spans 3000 sq.ft., housing classrooms for skill development, including Khajana, Katta, Tech-Hub, and Classrooms. Targeting young men and women aged 18 to 35 from low-income communities, the project provides information, career counseling, and vocational skills to support employment and livelihood.
The initiative aims to enhance employability by incorporating industry-required skills in vocational courses. Currently operating in four states and ten cities across India through Public-Private Partnerships, the Lighthouse program brings together government agencies, corporates, social organizations, and citizens to drive large-scale social change.
Lighthouse Communities Foundation, on a mission to empower society through life-skills, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities, has undergone a significant transformation since 2015. Having already benefited over 1.5 lakh citizens, the organization aspires to reach 10 lakh individuals by 2030.
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eClerx Services Limited, a Mumbai-based IT consulting and outsourcing multinational company, plays a pivotal role in supporting these initiatives.