Mumbai: In a bid to provide college students with an insight into the workings of the government, the Skill Development Department, led by Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha, on Thursday organised a unique opportunity for students to experience the ministry from within. The initiative aims to equip the youth with skills relevant to the modern job market while offering them an up-close look at government operations.

Lodha highlighted that this was the first time college students were given an opportunity to engage with the department in a hands-on manner, reinforcing the department’s commitment to providing job-oriented training to the youth.

Rajvardhan Karande, who assumed the role of Skill Development Minister, expressed his gratitude towards Minister Lodha. He shared that the new cabinet had taken the time to familiarise itself with the department's operations and plans.

The initiative involved inviting college students to the Ministry’s office, where they were given the chance to experience the ministry's daily functions. For one hour, the students were entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the office’s operations in an "exemplary manner."

This initiative is part of the *Young Inspirators Network* programme, where representatives are selected by students through elections, forming a shadow cabinet. The programme aims to help students understand government processes, its operational methods, and key public welfare schemes. Lodha organised the visit to allow students not only to form part of a shadow cabinet but also to gain practical experience within the ministry itself.

The visit was attended by Additional Chief Secretary of the Skill Development Department Manisha Verma, Commissioner Nitin Patil, Director of the Vocational Education and Training Directorate Madhavi Sardeshmukh, and members of the Young Inspirators Network Cabinet, including Smriti Tupe (Chief Minister), Riya Khanolkar (Home Minister), Parth Thorwat, Aryan Darade (Deputy Chief Ministers), and Parvani Dhavre (Speaker).

Lodha, speaking on the occasion, said, "Today’s students are the leaders of tomorrow. It is essential to provide them with first-hand experience of how the administration works. When these representatives engage with the system in the future, this experience will undoubtedly resonate with them. Although this may be a small experience, it can serve as a powerful motivator for their future leadership roles."

In addition, Additional Chief Secretary Manisha Verma shared insights into central government schemes, the plans executed by the Skill Development Department, and the various training programmes available to youth, ensuring they are better prepared for the evolving job market.