FUEL SkillTech, KDEM train 568 Karnataka students in AI, coding and employability skills

Bengaluru: FUEL SkillTech University has trained 568 students across three institutions in Karnataka under the NIPUNA Karnataka initiative, a skilling programme implemented in association with the Karnataka government and the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM).

The initiative aims to prepare students, particularly those from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds, for higher education, campus placements and careers in the technology sector, a statement said.

Students are being trained in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Core Java and Python, along with aptitude building and soft-skills development. The programme aligns academic learning with current industry requirements by combining technical training with practical workplace skills, the statement added.


Of the 568 students covered under the programme, 345 have completed training at KLS Vishwanathrao Deshpande Institute of Technology (VDIT), Haliyal, while 84 students from Shri Siddhalingeshwar BCA College, Gokak, have also completed the programme. Training is currently under way for 134 students at SECAB College of Engineering, Vijayapura.

Dr Ketan Deshpande, founder of FUEL SkillTech University, said the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academia and industry by providing future-focused technical training alongside employability development.

“Through NIPUNA Karnataka, we aim to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the digital economy, irrespective of their background,” he said.

Sanjeev Gupta, chief executive officer of KDEM, said industry-aligned skilling initiatives are becoming increasingly important as technology evolves and employers seek job-ready talent.

Participating institutions said the programme has helped students strengthen technical capabilities, improve confidence and gain exposure to skills sought by employers. They added that training in AI and programming technologies, combined with aptitude and interview preparation, would improve students’ readiness for recruitment and future career opportunities.

NIPUNA Karnataka is part of broader efforts to expand access to technology-focused training and build an industry-ready talent pool across the state, the statement added.