Telangana IT Minister Calls on Industry to Mentor Engineering Graduates

Hyderabad: Telangana's IT and Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu has appealed to the information technology sector to assume greater responsibility in mentoring engineering graduates, arguing that formal education cannot alone equip them for industry demands.

Speaking at the tenth anniversary event of PSR Techhub on Monday at Taj Vivanta in Begumpet, Sridhar Babu addressed an audience of entrepreneurs and professionals. He pointed out that approximately two lakh engineering graduates complete their studies at Telangana institutions annually, a scale that places considerable pressure on the system.

"The industry must step forward not just to absorb this talent, but to actively train, mentor, and shape it," the Minister said. He called for companies to establish formal mentorship frameworks that would enhance the employability of fresh graduates.

The government, Sridhar Babu stressed, cannot shoulder this responsibility alone. Instead, he positioned industry participation as essential to developing a workforce that meets contemporary professional requirements.

A significant announcement from the Minister concerned the state's planned AI Hub, which is expected to become operational within the coming months. This facility will deliver structured programmes focused on upskilling and reskilling for software professionals. The initiative aims to complement industry efforts in closing the skills gap and creating a steady supply of qualified professionals.

PSR Techhub, established in 2016, was highlighted as an exemplary case of how mid-sized enterprises contribute to the sector's growth. The company has expanded to employ more than 250 staff members and has grown into a venture valued at ₹120 crore. Despite facing challenges during the COVID-19 period, the company demonstrated sustained growth through disciplined business practices and capable leadership.

Sridhar Babu commended founder Ranga Rao and the company's management team for their resilient approach to business development.

P. Namyutha, Director of PSR Techhub, responded positively to the Minister's appeal, pledging that the company would engage actively in mentoring fresh engineering graduates. "The Minister has shown us the way. We will train fresh engineering graduates. We will mentor them, walk with them, and help them find their footing in this industry," she stated.

Namyutha also revealed the company's expansion plans beyond India, noting that PSR Techhub already maintains a client base spanning multiple countries. The company's international trajectory reflects broader opportunities in the global technology market.