Impact Stories

From Setback to Success: Poorvita's Transformative Journey through the Program.
Poorvita Mahesh Bakliwal, 23, faced a setback when she didn't secure a medical college seat. Encouraged by her father, she chose engineering and enrolled in the Information Technology branch at Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samaj's Karmaveer Baburao Ganpatrao Thakare College of Engineering.

As Poorvita advanced in college, her interest in data analytics and coding grew. She learned programming languages like C, C++, and Python, as well as Power BI, essential for analysing data. However, she lacked hands-on practice with real-world data sets. By her seventh semester, she was eager to gain practical experience and extract meaningful insights from data. It was then that she discovered the opportunity to enrol in the Next Gen Employability Program through her college's Career Guidance Cell.

She particularly found the course "Applied Data Analytics with Python, Power BI & MS Azure" provided by the Program useful in gaining the hands-on experience she had been seeking. This program included an AICTE Internship that exposed her to a capstone project using real-world case scenarios. Here, she applied her learning to develop interactive dashboards and derive actionable insights from complex data sets. “This practical exposure helped me understand how to use data visualization and its applications in solving real-world challenges,“ says Poorvita.

After enhancing her technical skills through practical experience, Poorvita found the volunteer sessions led by EY experts very helpful. These sessions taught her the importance of soft skills in standing out and securing a good job. "No one talks about improving soft skills," she reflects. "People often think being good with tech is enough to succeed in the industry. But these sessions helped me see how crucial soft skills are."

She found the LMS beneficial for accessing course materials and job opportunities. With hands-on data analytics experience and soft skills from EY-led sessions, she secured a job at Persistent Systems. Her family is proud of her achievements.

Poorvita highly recommends the Next Gen Employability Program for enhancing skills and employability. She advises students to embrace learning, participate in projects, and fully use the LMS. With commitment, the program can be transformative.

A native of Telangana, Lahiri always aspired to achieve the highest education since her father could not study beyond the 10th standard. With determination and hard work, she secured admission to B.Tech in Computer Engineering at a renowned college through a scholarship. Her faculty instructor enrolled her in the Next Gen Employability Program because of her proactive approach to learning.

She says, “Out of all the school and college sessions I have attended, I found this program's sessions to be unique because they ensured that students have a better understanding of the topics through hands-on sessions. I now feel more confident with my coding skills in Full Stack Development, Cloud Computing, and Microsoft Azure.”

Apart from attending the technical sessions, Lahari also registered for the AICTE EY GDS internship as part of the program. She attended all the master classes and mentorship sessions which helped her to connect with industry experts and understand her skill gaps and areas of improvement.

Lahari regularly accessed the program through an LMS portal. Due to her regular attendance, she became eligible to apply for job openings at ACT Fibrenet through the portal and was selected out of 100 applicants. After joining the organisation, she feels more motivated and energized. Her goal is to grow within the organization over the next five years, and she believes that continuous learning is the key to achieving this.

From an aspirant to an engineer, Lahari has made it to where she is through her hard work and brilliance. Her father takes pride in her achievements and acknowledges her crucial financial support to the family.

Fathima acknowledges the privilege of having an engineering college in her hometown. If not for this, she wouldn't have been able to pursue her degree, as she isn't allowed to leave the town to pursue academics. Since she was young, she has shown her enthusiasm for learning by consistently achieving high academic grades. This enabled her to convince her family to support her decision to pursue further education.

Although Fathima never had the opportunity to study cloud computing as part of her education, she had a strong interest in it. She is thankful that this Program allowed her to learn about various cloud services through practical sessions.

She also clearly remembers the EY GDS presentation and interview skills workshop. She gained an understanding that opportunities might arise at any time and that they should be seized with confidence thanks to the activity carried out during the session. She actively used the LMS and applied for the internships listed there with this confidence and aced the interview with Genpact where she is currently pursuing a paid internship and hoping to convert it into a full-time position.

She is grateful to have the opportunity to learn under the Next Gen Employability Program and for the great support received from her family.

She is getting a good mentorship from her current internship and hoping to get her dream job in AWS through her learnings in cloud computing.

Anne, the only child from a lower-middle-class family from Tirunelveli, faced significant financial challenges in pursuing her dream of becoming an engineer and data scientist. Her father worked as an auto driver while her mother stayed home, and their limited resources posed a major obstacle to her education. Determined to overcome these hurdles, Annie realised that academic excellence was her key to success. She focused on achieving high grades to secure scholarships and reduce the financial burden on her family.

In her third year of B.E., she became demotivated about her career prospects as the software sector is unstable and constantly fluctuating. She decided to pursue an internship, but unfortunately, she couldn't find a reputable organization in her area. During this time, she enthusiastically enrolled in the Next Gen Employability program with the support of her college. The training provided numerous hands-on sessions, which sparked more interest in the program. As a result, she enrolled in the AICTE internship, which is also part of the program.

She says, "I wouldn't have found a job if it weren't for LMS. I've seen many dashboards, but the LMS portal for the Next Gen Employability Program is up-to-date, user-friendly, and offers numerous job opportunities. I am the first in my class to secure a job, and the best part is that I still have one more year to complete my course.”

She is currently working as a Data Science Intern at Genpact, earning a stipend of 15k. After her 6-month internship, she will be offered a job with a package of 5.72 lakhs based on her performance during the internship.

Her dream is to become a Data Scientist, and she is hopeful that with her perseverance and support from her current mentor at Genpact, she will achieve her goal.

Rahul is the only child of his parents and has had a modest upbringing in Bheemaram village in Hanumakonda, Warangal. His father works as a Hindi teacher at a private school and is the primary earner, while his mother runs a small tailoring business from home. Despite their financial challenges, they have always supported Rahul's education. He is currently pursuing a B. Tech in Computer Science and Engineering with a specialization in the Internet of Things (IoT) at the Balaji Institute of Technology and Science. The Career Guidance Cell at his college helped him discover the Edunet Foundation's Next Gen Employability Program.

Rahul trained in IR 4.0 technologies, coupled with hands-on practice to improve his domain skills. Additionally, he actively participated in soft skills training sessions to enhance his communication, teamwork, and problem-solving capabilities, ultimately boosting his confidence for job interviews. One of the most impactful parts of the program for Rahul was the AICTE internship. During this internship, he worked on real projects, applying his theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. His experience improved his skills and the valuable mentorship provided by the EY volunteer professionals helped him understand employer expectations.

By the end of the program, Rahul had transformed from a hopeful student into a confident and skilled professional. He says, "The program helped bridge the gap between my education and getting a job. It made it possible for students like me to succeed in our careers." He applied for several jobs and was offered a position at GS Venture as a Full Stack Intern (Software Web Developer) convertible into a job.

Rahul aspires to become an AI expert and work at a leading multinational company such as EY, Google, Microsoft, or Apple. With his determination and hard work, we hope Rahul's journey continues to be successful.

Kokila K R, a 23-year-old engineering student specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI&ML) at City Engineering College, has always wanted to uplift her family. Financial constraints were a constant challenge with her father working as a driver and her mother managing the household. Yet, this only strengthened Kokila’s resolve to excel academically and secure a brighter future for her family.

Even though Kokila had a solid background in data analysis, machine learning, and Python, she realized the importance of adapting her skills to meet industry standards. However, due to financial constraints, traditional coaching and resources were not viable options for her. Nonetheless, Kokila discovered a valuable opportunity in the Next Gen Employability Program. She enrolled in the Full-Stack Web Development domain to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical industry demands.

Kokila gained hands-on experience in front-end and back-end development through the program. The structured Learning Management System (LMS) allowed her to learn at her own pace, review recorded sessions, and access additional study materials, helping her master complex concepts. One of the standout features of the program for Kokila was the volunteer engagement sessions. These sessions connected her with industry professionals who shared real-world insights, provided career guidance, and opened doors to networking opportunities. This exposure not only boosted her confidence but also solidified her aspirations to succeed in the tech industry. Kokila feels better prepared to take on the challenges of the tech world, thanks to the practical skills and industry alignment the program provided.

Nikhil Chhotu Marathe, a 21-year-old engineering student, has followed an inspiring path filled with hard work and determination. He grew up in Nashik, Maharashtra, in a family of four. Nikhil's life has been influenced by his father's job as a painter in the construction industry and his mother's dedication as a homemaker. His younger brother is currently in the 12th standard. Despite financial challenges, Nikhil's family has always valued education, seeing it as the key to a better future.

Nikhil's financial situation didn't hold him back; rather, it motivated him to dream big. He was determined to use education not only to improve his own life but also to provide his parents with a more comfortable future. This determination led him to pursue a degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering at MVP's Karmaveer Adv. Baburao Ganpatrao Thakare College of Engineering, where he is currently in his 7th semester. Nikhil's academic success is impressive, and his role as a student coordinator truly showcases his leadership skills and ability to overcome challenges.

He discovered the Next Gen Employability Program through his college and was immediately interested in the Data Analytics domain. With a basic understanding of Python, MySQL, and Microsoft Excel, he was eager to learn more and gain skills for a successful career in technology. The program exceeded his expectations as it provided hands-on experience with data analysis using Microsoft Azure and creating visualizations with Power BI. Additionally, experts from EY GDS offered practical advice on succeeding in the corporate world.

The Learning Management System (LMS) helped Nikhil secure internships and work on Python projects, further enhancing his skills. Overall, the program has played a crucial role in preparing him for a career in embedded software development.

Nikhil’s story shows that with determination, the right opportunities, and a strong desire to improve his life, he is on his way to achieving his goals and making a positive impact in the technology industry.

Sarvadnya Sushil Kawade, a 20-year-old student from Nashik, is pursuing her degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering at MVP’s Karmaveer Adv. Baburao Ganpatrao Thakare College of Engineering. Sarvadnya comes from a humble family background where her father runs a small tea stall, the primary source of income for her family, which includes her mother, a homemaker, and her younger sister. Despite the financial constraints, Sarvadnya has always been determined to carve out a successful future for herself.

Sarvadnya has faced challenges in education due to her socio-economic status. Despite limited access to advanced tools, she remains resilient and resourceful. Discovering the Next Gen Employability Program, she saw it as the perfect opportunity to improve her skills and create a path to a better future.

Enrolling in the Data Analytics domain of the Student Development Program (SDP) was a turning point for Sarvadnya. Before the program, she had a solid understanding of Python and some experience with tools like MySQL and Power BI. However, she knew that to stand out in the competitive world of data analytics, she needed more than just basic knowledge—she needed practical, hands-on experience and guidance from industry experts.

The Next Gen Employability Program, in partnership with EY Global Delivery Services (GDS), provided Sarvadnya with valuable real-world insights into data analytics, decision-making, project management, and teamwork—crucial skills for today’s job market. She secured an internship as a Python Intern at Spark to Ideas with support from the Edunet Foundation. The hands-on experience gained equipped her with the technical and soft skills necessary to excel. She developed Python scripts and worked on data analysis projects, gaining valuable experience in using tools like Power BI and Microsoft Azure, boosting her confidence and skills in effective communication and collaboration. These experiences are essential for a successful career in data analytics.

Sarvadnya aims to become a leading electronics engineer, focusing on innovative solutions. The Next Gen Employability Program has provided her with the tools and confidence needed for success, emphasizing practical skills and guidance from industry experts. She encourages other students to take advantage of similar opportunities and stresses the importance of staying curious, working hard, and seeking help when needed.

Rontala Pooja Reddy, a 20-year-old Computer Science and Engineering student at SR University, comes from a family of educators. She was raised in an environment that valued education and continuous learning. This background provided her with a strong foundation to pursue her academic goals, especially in the field of technology.

Pooja learned about this program through her college, where it was presented as a valuable opportunity to enhance students' skills and knowledge. With expectations of gaining new technical abilities and practical insights, Pooja enrolled in the Full-Stack Web Development domain. Before enrolling in the program, she possessed strong programming, web development, and data analysis skills, complemented by effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities upon completing her training.

The SDP significantly benefited Pooja by deepening her understanding of programming and web development. It provided a hands-on experience that not only refined her coding abilities but also introduced her to new tools and technologies. The program's emphasis on collaboration and communication further enhanced her soft skills, enabling her to work more effectively in teams and confidently express her ideas during group discussions and feedback sessions.

Pooja found the volunteer engagement sessions to be particularly useful, as they offered her the chance to connect with experienced professionals. This exposure broadened her perspective and enriched her learning experience. Additionally, the Learning Management System (LMS) was a helpful resource that she used regularly. It provided her with valuable opportunities and helped expand her knowledge base.

Through the placement assistance provided by the program, Pooja secured an internship as a Software Developer at MangosOrange. She also interned with Hack Veda. These experiences have aligned with her career aspiration to excel in the tech industry, with a focus on software development and data analysis.

Pooja strongly recommends the Next Gen Employability Program to others, encouraging future students to take full advantage of the learning and networking opportunities it provides. She suggests that the program could be enhanced by improving soft skills development and technical training, thereby better preparing students for their future careers.

Kanjarla Sahithi, a 20-year-old Computer Science Engineering student from SR University, hails from a small family. Despite facing financial constraints, Sahithi's determination and passion for technology led her to enrol in the program.

Before joining SDP, Sahithi possessed a foundational knowledge of programming languages like C, Python, and SQL. However, she was keen to delve deeper into web development. The program's focus on full-stack web development, combined with the opportunity to learn practical skills, ignited her enthusiasm. One of the most significant takeaways for Sahithi was mastering Bootstrap, a powerful framework that simplified the process of creating responsive and visually appealing websites. This newfound knowledge complemented her existing technical skills and provided her with a strong foundation for her future career.

Beyond technical skills, the program also fostered valuable soft skills. The volunteer engagement session, for instance, helped her develop essential communication and teamwork abilities. Additionally, the Learning Management System (LMS) proved to be a valuable resource, streamlining her job and internship applications.

Sahithi is currently preparing for placements and the program has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in shaping her career aspirations. Her newfound skills and confidence have positioned her well to pursue a successful career as a web developer.

Sahithi recommends the program to aspiring students, emphasizing the importance of active engagement, seeking help when needed, and embracing practical opportunities. She believes that by fully committing to the program, students can significantly enhance their skills and career prospects.

Dr Suraj Shah, the esteemed Chairperson of the SAS GUNI Global Centre for Analytics at Ganpat University, Gujarat, has been at the forefront of analytics education for the past four years. ​ Seeking to enhance his expertise, he seized the opportunity provided by AICTE to participate in the 5-day Faculty Development Program (FDP) on Data Analytics Applications using the Cloud, organized by the Edunet Foundation.​

Dr Shah reflects on the meticulously planned program that not only covered a comprehensive range of topics but also fostered active participation. He says, “What set this FDP apart was the inclusion of a daily open forum (Q&A session) lasting 45 minutes, where participant queries were addressed patiently. This unique feature greatly enhanced the learning experience, providing a platform for collaborative discussion and problem-solving.”​

Dr Shah had specific expectations, including gaining insights into Power BI and Machine Learning. The FDP not only met but exceeded these expectations, offering a deep dive into Power BI with Azure, Azure Machine Learning for predictive analytics, Azure Data Factory, and Azure Data Warehousing. Notably, the sessions were recorded and promptly uploaded to YouTube, allowing participants like Dr. Shah to revisit and reinforce their learning even after regular hours.​

A highlight of the program was the guest session by EY-GDS, providing valuable insights from both practical and industry perspectives. This real-world application of analytics further enriched the participants' understanding.​

Armed with newfound knowledge, Dr Shah is eager to share these insights with his students. He plans to incorporate predictive analytics into his regular classes, a capability he acquired through the FDP. Beyond predictive analytics, he aims to integrate all the components learned during the program into his teaching, ensuring that his students benefit from the latest advancements in the field.

Dr Suraj Shah's journey with the Edunet Foundation's FDP on Data Analytics Applications using the Cloud stands as a testament to the transformative impact of continuous learning on educators and their ability to shape the future of analytics education.​

Prof. Shivamma D has 10 years of experience in teaching and technical roles in various institutions in India and the UK and has collaborated on ICMR projects. She learned about the FDP on Data Analytics through AICTE and is looking forward to learning how to navigate all Azure services and settings. She said “I know my expectation is huge for 5 days of the virtual training program but still the Training Program fulfilled all my expectations as the program extensively covered various Azure services”.

According to Prof. Shivamma, the uniqueness of the program is emphasising practical implementation alongside theoretical learning unlike many other training sessions that predominantly focus on theory, but this training program effectively engaged the participants in hands-on exercise and demonstration. This approach allowed her to directly interact with the Azure services, facilitating a deeper understanding of their functionalities and the real-world applications.

Besides the live sessions, she also appreciated the option to access recorded sessions on YouTube. This allowed her to revisit the content at her convenience, giving her a better grasp of complex topics. Being able to pause, rewind, and rewatch specific sections helps clarify any unclear concepts from the live sessions. The recorded sessions provided a reference for practising after class. Also, the open forum dialogue (Ask Me Anything) allowed her to ask questions directly to experts, gather information and deepen her understanding of various subjects.

The guest session with industry experts benefited Prof. Shivamma D in multiple ways: bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications, highlighting industry best practices and trends in Azure adoption, and providing insights and strategies for overcoming potential hurdles.

Prof. Shivamma aims to enrich the curriculum by incorporating these insights ensuring the student education is aligned with the current industry practice.

Dr Shariff, a training and placement officer at the City Engineering College, Bangalore shared his comprehensive feedback on the program. In his words, "The Next Gen Employability Program has made a significant difference in our students' career prospects at City Engineering College. By offering practical skills training alongside career guidance, the program provided a clear path forward in today’s competitive job market. The mentorship from seasoned professionals and the chance to connect with industry experts boosted our students' confidence, helping them to actively pursue their career goals.

As a faculty member, I found the program easy to implement. Its well-organized and adaptable structure fits smoothly into our existing curriculum. The support from the program team was outstanding, ensuring that both faculty members and students could fully benefit from the resources provided. From start to finish, the entire process was straightforward and effective.

The impact on our students has been remarkable. We've seen noticeable improvements not just in their technical skills, but also in their overall confidence and job readiness. The program’s focus on practical skills like resume writing and interview preparation has significantly enhanced their employability, with several students securing internships and job offers shortly after completing the program.

This program stands out due to its comprehensive approach to career readiness. While many other programs focus solely on technical skills, this program covers the entire spectrum, including essential soft skills, networking, and personal branding. This well-rounded training, combined with personalized support, makes the program unique and highly effective.”