Panaji: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has set a target to skill and upskill 12,000 Goan youth over the next 12 months, aiming to ensure every young person finds employment in the state.Sawant said the department of rural development has empanelled 24 institutes to run three-month and six-month courses for youth who have not completed their education or want to upgrade their skills. These institutes will offer programmes in tourism, hospitality, banking, and retail, and will issue government of India-approved certificates.“I want to ensure that 100% Goans get employed. Goa has opportunities in the pharma, manufacturing, hospitality and shipbuilding sectors. Not everyone can get govt jobs, and all must be ready to work in the private sector,” Sawant said during the Yuva Kaushal Mahotsav.Sawant said government is ready to bear the entire cost on behalf of students, including course fees, uniform expenses, and travel allowance.He also urged students to be willing to study and take up available jobs within the state, noting that work experience would be considered if they later apply for government jobs.Sawant added that through DDU-GKY 2.0, Goa aims to reach 9,000 rural youth in 2026–27 to support access to employment opportunities.