80 Shadnagar youth graduate from Microsoft data science program; 57 placed with Rs 1.77 crore total package

Hyderabad: As many as 80 students were trained in the Data Science Skilling Program under two batches, and 57 students got placed, making the overall placement rate 71.25 per cent.

The total package value across both batches stands at Rs 1.77 crore as on date, and average packages of the students stood at Rs 2.4 LPA (lakh per annum) with top students receiving up to Rs 6 LPA.

The program was supported by Microsoft and designed and implemented by United Way of Hyderabad (UWH) for underprivileged youth in Shadnagar and nearby villages. The program, with a market value of Rs 3 lakh per student, was offered free of cost and aimed to prepare young professionals for careers in tech and data analytics.

A total of 80 students were trained in this program under two batches.

The program curriculum includes Advanced Excel, SQL, Python, Power BI, AI/ML. In the process of making the students job-ready they were also trained on life skills such as stress management, resume preparation, mock interviews, office etiquette, etc.

Graduation ceremony

The graduation ceremony for the second cohort of students was held on May 17 at the Shadnagar Municipality Office. The event honoured the achievements of the students and acknowledged the contributions of families, mentors, and key stakeholders. Notable attendees included MLA K Shankaraiah and Municipal Commissioner of Shadnagar, Sunitha, Srichandana and Harsha, members of Microsoft's leadership team, and Rekha Srinivasan (CEO, United Way of Hyderabad).

Microsoft and United Way of Hyderabad have been actively implementing several developmental initiatives in the Shadnagar region for years, with a focus on creating employment opportunities for local youth, said MLA Shankaraiah. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, he expressed his happiness over the progress being made in the area of skill development.

“Skill development plays a crucial role in shaping the lives of youth. Through structured training programs like data science training, our youth are being empowered with the right capabilities to become self-reliant and job-ready. It is heartening to see such impactful programs bearing fruit and contributing meaningfully to the region’s growth,” the MLA stated.

Srichandana, Community Affairs Lead from Microsoft, said, “I thank the students who trusted us with four months of their lives. I am incredibly proud of the progress each of the students made in such a short time. This program is a great example of what is possible when government, corporations, and non-profits work together. I thank the Shadnagar Municipality for providing us with the space to run the program. I am grateful for our partners in change, United Way of Hyderabad and Swinfy, for their dedication and flawless implementation of the program. And I am glad Microsoft is able to support this program.”

United Way of Hyderabad CEO Rekha said, “We call rural communities experiencing rapid growth as Communities in transition. These communities often do not receive support to best navigate the changes that are happening around them. It is our effort that the youth in these communities are prepared to take advantage of the rapid industrialisation and growth around their communities by equipping them with the technical and life skills needed to build new-age careers. We are glad to be a part of Shadnagar’s growth story.”