Why we work with young people?

Kerala, with its 96.2% literacy rate, the highest among Indian states, is often hailed as a leader in education. Yet, despite this achievement, its youth face a significant skills gap, limiting their personal growth, career readiness, and leadership potential.

According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24 by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Kerala’s youth unemployment rate (ages 15-29) stands at a staggering 29.9%, compared to the national average of 3.2%. This stark contrast highlights a critical disconnect between academic qualifications and the practical skills required in today’s workforce.

Traditional education systems primarily focus on theoretical knowledge, leaving young people unprepared for real-world challenges. Many lack essential 21st-century skills—such as leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, communication, and critical thinking—that are vital for professional success and active civic participation. As a result, a large section of youth remain underutilized and disconnected from meaningful opportunities that could help them unlock their full potential.

At Captains Social Foundation, we believe that young people are not just beneficiaries of change but active contributors to building a better society. However, without the right exposure, hands-on experience, and structured guidance, they often struggle to translate their education and aspirations into action.

We see volunteering as a powerful tool to bridge this skills gap—providing young people with real-world experiences that go beyond textbooks. Our approach reimagines volunteerism as a hands-on learning journey that equips youth with the competencies needed to thrive in the modern world while making a lasting social impact.