Global apparel retailer UNIQLO, in partnership with Plan International, has launched its first Job-Oriented Vocational Training Centre in India. Located in Dwarka, Delhi, the centre aims to provide skill development opportunities for underprivileged youth to help them secure better employment.
This three-year initiative is UNIQLO’s first ongoing social contribution project in India and is backed by a donation of JPY (Japanese Yen) 120 million (INR 7 crore) from its parent company, Fast Retailing Co., Ltd. The goal is to equip 2,700 young job seekers (aged 18-29) with essential skills to enter the workforce.
What the Skill Centre Offers
The Saksham Centre, as it is named, will train youth in:
- Technical skills – General Duty Assistant, Retail Trainee Associate, and Sewing Machine Operation
- Life skills – Digital and Financial Literacy, Gender Equality, Workplace Communication
The program prioritises youth who have dropped out of school, belong to migrant families, or come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Kenji Inoue, CFO & COO of UNIQLO India stated, “Inspired by our LifeWear philosophy of making everyone’s life better, we hope this skill centre project will have a life-changing, positive impact for thousands of young Indian people. It is a fundamental for UNIQLO that, in every country and region that we operate, we always contribute to the society, and this new project reaffirms our long-term commitment to the Indian community. Education is an integral part of individual and societal development and, working with Plan International, we look forward to providing opportunities to empower young people.”
UNIQLO is also exploring internship opportunities at its stores and facilities for program participants to gain hands-on experience.
Mohammed Asif, Executive Director of Plan International India, said, “With the launch of the new Saksham Centre, Plan, along with UNIQLO, will be creating opportunities for young women and men to gain market-oriented skills, secure sustainable livelihoods, and become active contributors to nation building. This initiative aligns with our commitment to quality education, gender equality, and work & economic growth. We are grateful to our partner UNIQLO for their support in making this vision a reality. Together, we are building a future where every youth has the opportunity and determination to contribute to Viksit Bharat.”
With this initiative, UNIQLO aims to create a lasting social impact while supporting India’s workforce development.
