Kupwara town is witnessing a unique and transformative initiative known as the Retail Associate program. Jointly implemented by the REACHA Foundation and the Indian Army, and funded by the IIFL Foundation, this project aims to provide training and employment opportunities to 180 unemployed youth in the Kupwara district. The program, inaugurated on 27th July 2022 by CO, 41 RR, in the presence of the CEO of REACHA and a representative from the IIFL Foundation, has already made significant strides towards empowering the local community.
REACHA Foundation, renowned for its expertise in executing large-scale training programs, has played a vital role in designing and delivering the Retail Associate program. With their experienced trainers bringing a wealth of industry knowledge to the training sessions, the program is tailored to meet the needs of the retail sector and ensure the trainees are equipped with the necessary skills for success.
The training takes place at the Sheikh-ul-Aalam complex near the Bus Stand in Kupwara. The center is equipped with a state-of-the-art computer lab and follows an NSQF-aligned curriculum, ensuring that the trainees receive comprehensive and industry-relevant education. Upon completion of the training program, all participants are awarded certifications from the Retail Sector Skill Council of the National Skill Development Corporation of India. Efforts are being made to secure placements for all the trainees, and to date, 150 motivated youth from Kupwara have successfully completed the training, with 69 already securing placements in various locations across the Kashmir region.
An integral part of the Retail Associate program is the organization of industrial visits, which prove to be a transformative experience for the trainees and trainers alike. These visits have a positive impact on the trainees by providing them with firsthand exposure to real-world retail environments, enabling them to apply their training in a practical setting and gain valuable hands-on experience. Such experiences foster confidence and a deeper understanding of the prevailing work culture in the retail sector.
The recent industrial visit, which took place on Saturday, 17th June 2023, saw a group of 45 trainees visit prominent establishments such as Srinagar City Mall, Vishal Mega Mart, McDonald's Srinagar, and various supermarkets. During the visit, the participants were granted exclusive access to observe the inner workings of these establishments. They had the opportunity to witness store operations, learn about effective visual merchandising techniques, and observe customer engagement strategies in action. This immersive experience provided the trainees with invaluable insights into the intricacies of managing a bustling retail space and optimizing customer experiences.
Industrial visits not only benefit the trainees but also play a crucial role in enhancing the training program itself. Trainers have the opportunity to observe the latest trends and practices in the retail industry, allowing them to update their knowledge and refine their teaching methods. This continuous improvement ensures that the training remains aligned with industry requirements, equipping the trainees with the most relevant skills and knowledge.
The success of the industrial visit organized for the retail trainees of IIFL Retail Training Centre in Kupwara is a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders involved. Through the collaborative efforts of the REACHA Foundation, Indian Army, and IIFL Foundation, the Retail Associate program continues to create employment opportunities and contribute to the growth of the retail sector in the region.
As the program moves forward, it is anticipated that more unemployed youth in the Kupwara district will benefit from this transformative initiative. With dedicated trainers, industry partnerships, and ongoing industrial visits, the program will continue to empower individuals, enhance their employability, and support the development of a thriving retail industry in Kupwara.