In a major push to uplift marginalised youth, Tamil Nadu’s Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department is launching two new initiatives—Social Labs and Learn-a-Lot—targeting over 60,000 students living in government hostels. These programs are specially crafted for first-generation learners from economically challenged families earning under ₹2.5 lakh annually.

While academic basics are addressed in the hostels, officials note a crucial gap in skill development, career preparedness, and life skills training. “Early interventions yield the highest returns in human capital, as per the Heckman Curve,” a senior official said. These programs aim to close those gaps.

Social Labs, reaching about 12,910 college students across 174 hostels, focuses on employability, confidence building, and mentorship. Modules include spoken English, personality development, MS Office, Tally, arts, and sports, aiming to make students not only college-ready but job-ready.

Meanwhile, Learn-a-Lot supports nearly 44,500 school students in 997 hostels. It combines curriculum help with co-scholastic activities and life skills training. STEM subjects, digital literacy, fine arts, sports, values, and career guidance form part of this holistic approach.

Each program is customised to students’ educational stages—foundational skills for schools and professional readiness for colleges. Delivery will be flexible, using online, offline, or blended modes based on local infrastructure.

Officials believe these initiatives will empower young learners, equipping them to break poverty cycles through education and skills.