The current education system in Kerala does have a significant relation to the increasing trend of youth migration from the state. Kerala is renowned for its high literacy rates and strong emphasis on education, which has successfully produced a large pool of well-educated youth. However, this very success has also contributed to a mismatch between the aspirations of educated young people and the local employment opportunities available. Many graduates find that the job market in Kerala does not offer adequate positions that match their qualifications or career goals, prompting them to seek better prospects elsewhere.
Moreover, the education system in Kerala, while strong academically, often emphasizes traditional subjects and theoretical knowledge over vocational training and skill development aligned with the current job market demands. This gap leads to a situation where many young people, despite their education, feel underprepared or unable to secure fulfilling employment locally. Consequently, they migrate to other Indian states or abroad in search of better job opportunities, higher salaries, and professional growth, which the local economy is currently unable to fully provide.
Another factor linked to the education system is the societal and parental expectation for white-collar jobs, which places pressure on youth to pursue higher education in fields with limited local job openings. This cultural mindset, combined with the education system's focus, exacerbates youth unemployment and underemployment in Kerala. As a result, migration is viewed as a necessary step to achieve economic stability and career advancement, reinforcing the trend.
In my final analysis, while Kerala’s education system has successfully created an educated youth population, it has not fully adapted to the evolving economic landscape and job market needs. This disconnect plays a crucial role in driving the increasing youth migration from the state, as young people seek opportunities better aligned with their education and ambitions outside Kerala.