83% of Unemployed People in India are Youth

As we celebrate World Youth Skills Day on July 15, we are reminded of the untapped potential of youth in India. India’s youth represent one of the country's greatest strengths, but they also face significant challenges. Despite a median age of 28 and one of the world’s largest youth populations, only 54.81% of Indian graduates are employable, according to the India Skills Report 2025. A staggering 83% of unemployed Indians are youth, as per an ILO report of 2024. A lack of relevant skills, particularly in digital and AI competencies, leaves many young people unprepared for the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.

Magic Bus India Foundation is addressing this challenge by equipping youth from underserved communities with digital and AI skills. By integrating transferable life and employability skills with digital skills, the organisation is helping youth not only secure employment but also thrive in technology-enabled workplaces.

To respond to the changing nature of work, Magic Bus introduced the AI-Connect With Work (AI-CWW) programme. This initiative is built on a "tech-for-first-timers" philosophy, making AI accessible and meaningful to youth with little or no prior exposure to technology.

The curriculum includes foundational AI concepts, prompt engineering, ethical AI use, and practical applications such as creating resumes, using chatbots, language translation, and designing video content. The programme aims to build both digital literacy and workplace confidence, preparing participants for roles in sectors such as retail, logistics, BFSI, and IT/ITeS, where AI tools are becoming increasingly relevant.

Through hands-on learning, participants gain experience in real-world applications. Structured mentorship, sector-specific orientation, and post-placement support ensure continued career growth. The programme also embeds ethical considerations, helping youth navigate biases, misinformation, and data privacy, and encourages responsible AI adoption. Collaborations with corporates and tech partners keep the curriculum aligned with evolving industry needs.

India’s digital divide, shaped by infrastructure gaps, limited access, and lack of contextual relevance, continues to hinder youth employability. Magic Bus addresses this through its 75-day digital skilling programme, which trains STEM graduates in cloud computing and allied technologies alongside life and employability skills.

Delivered through in-person sessions by expert trainers, the programme includes employer engagement, mentorship, resume-building, and global certifications, culminating in industry-relevant projects. With an impressive placement rate in sustainable jobs, the organisation’s programme ensures long-term economic stability.

Explore Magic Bus’ #SkillingIt initiative celebrating resilient youth from underserved communities who are reshaping their futures.

Mentorship and Long-Term Support

Magic Bus recognises that a young person’s first job is only the beginning of their career journey. Through structured mentorship and post-placement support, the organisation ensures that participants continue to apply their learning and adapt to evolving work environments.

Mentors also help participants gain emotional readiness and confidence, which are key to navigating the modern workplace.

Stories of Change:

Keerthana’s Path to a Sustainable Career

Allutla Keerthana, a graduate from Hyderabad, faced multiple job rejections before joining the Magic Bus digital skilling programme. With targeted support, she developed cloud computing skills and improved her communication abilities. She now works at a healthcare company and contributes to improving operational efficiency. Her journey highlights how skill-building can lead to confidence and career success.

Chaithra’s Journey of Transformation

Chaithra, a determined young woman from Bengaluru, transformed her career path through Magic Bus’s AI-CWW programme. Immersing herself in hands-on learning, she developed proficiency in generative AI tools and prompt engineering. Expert mentors supported her professional development, offering guidance in machine learning, interview preparation, and workplace communication. With a newfound sense of confidence, Chaithra now aspires to deepen her technical skills and build a meaningful career.

Future-Ready, Not Just Job-Ready

Magic Bus's interventions go beyond job placement. They focus on future readiness, helping youth build the curiosity, resilience, and adaptability required in a constantly changing job market. By combining technical knowledge with transferable life and employability skills, the programmes empower youth to take control of their economic futures and support their families.

These initiatives equip youth with the skills and confidence to make informed career and life choices, enabling them to support their families and break the cycle of poverty. For many first-generation earners from underserved communities, this marks a transformative journey that enhances household income, fosters financial independence, and raises aspirations. These young individuals do more than secure employment—they become changemakers who inspire others to pursue education and skill development. Many go on to serve as role models within their communities, creating a ripple effect that drives broader social change.

Conclusion: Building an Equitable, Skilled Future

On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day, Magic Bus India Foundation reaffirms its commitment to empowering India’s youth with future-ready skills. Through the AI-CWW and digital skilling programmes, the organisation is enabling youth to move from the margins into meaningful employment.

As technology continues to reshape the world of work, Magic Bus is ensuring that no young person is left behind. With the support of partners,trainers,and communities,the organisation is helping build an inclusive,future-ready workforce equipped to meet the demands of tomorrow.Support Magic Bus in its mission to uplift millions of young people from underserved communities.

About Magic Bus India Foundation

Magic Bus India Foundation is one of the leading NGOs in education and skilling in India,empowering young people from underserved communities with 21st century lifeand employability skills to break the cycle of povertyand lead sustainable lives.