Application Deadline:
5 September 2025
About Organisation
The Kerala Youth Leadership Academy (KYLA) is a pioneering institution established by the Government of Kerala with the vision of nurturing leadership among the state’s youth. Functioning under the General Administration Department (GAD) and chaired by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, KYLA is the first government-led leadership institute in India. It has been created to equip young people with the skills, perspectives, and values required to become socially responsible and inclusive leaders of the future. The academy focuses on cultivating civic consciousness, ethical values, and innovative thinking, preparing youth to adapt to the dynamic challenges of governance and society. KYLA also emphasizes access to global knowledge resources in public policy, administration, leadership, technology, and governance, ensuring Kerala’s youth are exposed to world-class practices. By offering capacity-building programs, training modules, and hands-on learning opportunities, the academy seeks to inspire young leaders to contribute meaningfully to the state’s development. Furthermore, KYLA promotes cultural and attitudinal reorientation, encouraging youth to live with purpose, lead with responsibility, and contribute to inclusive governance. With its holistic approach, KYLA aims to shape a generation of leaders who are not only visionary but also rooted in ethics, empathy, and adaptability.
About the Grant
The Young Kerala Fellowship Programme (YKFP) is an initiative of the Kerala Youth Leadership Academy (KYLA) under the General Administration Department, designed to engage young graduates in state-building efforts. The fellowship spans six months, with the possibility of extension to one year, offering participants a unique opportunity to work closely with district-level governance systems. Each of Kerala’s 14 districts will host one selected fellow, who will collaborate with district collectors, development commissioners, and sub-collectors on priority projects initiated by the state government and local administrations. Fellows will gain hands-on experience in governance, policy implementation, and development initiatives while actively contributing to Kerala’s growth. In addition to field exposure, fellows will participate in a residential certificate course at the Institute of Management in Government (IMG), Thiruvananthapuram, covering public policy, administration, governance, leadership, and management. The program provides a stipend of ₹25,000 per month, ensuring financial support during the fellowship period. By combining theoretical training with practical engagement, the fellowship develops young professionals into civic-conscious leaders equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for inclusive governance. The Young Kerala Fellowship thus serves as a platform for youth to apply their education, creativity, and passion toward shaping a stronger, more resilient Kerala.
Who can Apply?
The Young Kerala Fellowship Programme is open to young graduates who aspire to play an active role in governance and public service. Applicants must be permanent residents of Kerala and demonstrate proficiency in both English and Malayalam, as effective communication in both languages is essential for meaningful engagement in local administration. Candidates should hold an undergraduate degree or its equivalent in any discipline from a recognized university, providing a foundation for contributing to diverse governance and development projects. The fellowship specifically targets youth between the ages of 21 and 27 years as of the application date, recognizing the potential of this age group to bring fresh perspectives, energy, and adaptability to the program. Selected fellows will be placed in one of Kerala’s 14 districts, allowing them to directly engage with district administrations and contribute to government initiatives. Preference will be given to candidates who show leadership potential, a strong commitment to public service, and a desire to learn from hands-on governance experiences. The program seeks individuals who are open to immersive learning, capable of teamwork, and dedicated to developing innovative solutions to local challenges. By fulfilling these eligibility requirements, applicants demonstrate readiness to grow into responsible leaders and changemakers.
How to Apply?
Interested candidates must submit their applications with proof of eligibility, including age, residency, and educational qualifications, by the specified deadline. Applications will be reviewed by the Selection and Monitoring Committee, which will shortlist and finalize fellows based on merit and potential. Selected applicants will then be placed in one of Kerala’s 14 districts, where they will begin their fellowship and simultaneously attend the certificate program at IMG.
Application Deadline
The final date to apply for the Young Kerala Fellowship Programme will be announced by the Government of Kerala. Candidates must submit applications before this closing date for eligibility.
