The National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) and Higher Education Department, Government of Karnataka have collaborated to launch the ‘Student Skilling Program’ aiming to equip the youth of Karnataka with industry-relevant skills in the securities market. The Student Skilling Program enhances their financial knowledge and employability skills in the securities market. This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a significant leap towards empowering the youth of the state of Karnataka.

This MoU was signed and exchanged on May 15, 2026 by Mrs Khushboo G. Chowdhary – Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Government of Karnataka and Ankit Sharma, Chief Regulatory Officer, NSE, in esteemed presence of Siddaramaiah –Chief Minister of Karnataka and other  ministers from Government of Karnataka - Dr M C Sudhakar, Minister for Higher Education, Priyank M. Kharge, Minister for Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology and Science & Technology, N Chaluvarayaswamy, Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Sharanaprakash Rudrappa Patil, Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development and Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka.

NSE would design, develop, and implement a comprehensive student skilling program for youth which will be supported and facilitated by Government of Karnataka. The MoU outlines a framework for cooperation between NSE and the Government of Karnataka to facilitate the creation of a robust skilled pool of students across various educational institutions in Karnataka. The program will also include interactive sessions, case studies, and simulations to make learning engaging and effective.

Benefits for Students: This program offers a unique opportunity for students in Karnataka to gain life

skills and industry-relevant skills

• Learning about Investing: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the investing

for their own financial wellbeing. This knowledge will empower them to make informed

decisions about their personal finances and investments.

• Employment Opportunities: The program will enhance students' employability in the financial

and securities market.

• Self-Employment Opportunities: Equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge, students

can also explore self-employment opportunities.

The partnership between NSE and the Higher Education Department of Government of Karnataka helps in the state's growth and development and creates an investor-friendly and resilient investing ecosystem.

Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, NSE said “Education, financial literacy and management and investing are key pillars in building a knowledgeable, empowered and resilient state of Karnataka. Through this collaboration with the Government of Karnataka, NSE is committed to equip students with practical knowledge of the securities market, investing, while also enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial potential. This initiative reflects our vision of creating a financially aware and future-ready youth workforce that can actively participate in India’s growth story.”