Uber proposes ‘driver-cum-tourist guide’ training initiative for Karnataka

Uber proposes ‘driver-cum-tourist guide’ training initiative for Karnataka

In a move aimed at expanding livelihood opportunities for Karnataka’s youth, Uber India has proposed a new skill development initiative that combines driving training with certified tourist-guide skills.

At a meeting with Karnataka Skill Development and Medical Education Minister Sharanaprakash R Patil at Vikasa Soudha on Tuesday, Mike Orgill, head of public policy (Asia Pacific) at Uber, said that equipping drivers with tourism-related skills would significantly improve income prospects, especially for marginalized communities.

Karnataka Skill Development Corporation (KSDC) now trains candidates in both light and heavy vehicle driving. Over 100 trained drivers have already secured employment in India and abroad. Taking note of this success, Uber proposed the -'driver-cum-tourist guide' model to further enhance earning potential, a statement said.

“We discussed various skilling initiatives to enhance livelihood opportunities across tech and tourism, with a special focus on inclusion of marginalized communities. Karnataka has countless tourism destinations where a well-trained local cab driver can also serve as an effective tourist guide,” Orgill said.

Minister Patil welcomed the suggestion, stating that integrating soft skills into driver training would be beneficial, and assured that the proposal would be placed before the next board meeting. Uber agreed to submit a proposal for a pilot next year and scale the initiative with the Ministry’s support.

In another meeting, Hyvision India Pvt. Ltd, a Korean-promoted firm providing camera solutions to iPhone manufacturer Foxconn, signed a memorandum of understanding with the state-run Government Tool Room Training Centre (GTTC) in the presence of the minister.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in technical training, skilled manpower development, and sharing of facilities in areas such as automation, machine vision, precision machining, and equipment assembly.

The agreement was signed by Lee Yunho, Managing Director of Hyvision India, and Siddalingappa Pujari, MD of GTTC. Both institutions agreed to offer industrial exposure, internships, and placement opportunities to eligible GTTC trainees, along with sharing of industrial facilities and demonstration equipment for educational and research purposes, the release adds.