Empowering Schedule Tribe-Schedule Caste Communities Using Information And Communication Technology Tools offers free, job-oriented IT training to members of the SC and ST communities in Goa. The scheme is still running and was re-notified by the Government of Goa in August 2025, with the latest official notification valid for three years. Eligible students can now enroll in up to two courses every year at the empanelled IT Knowledge Centers (ITKCs) across the state.
This scheme supports students and local youth by providing essential computer skills to bridge the digital divide. Beneficiaries receive high-quality technical education at no personal cost, helping them improve their professional prospects and digital literacy.
Empowering Schedule Tribe-Schedule Caste Communities Using Information And Communication Technology Tools - Introduction
Empowering Schedule Tribe-Schedule Caste Communities Using Information And Communication Technology Tools is a meaningful scheme by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications, Government of Goa. It helps bridge the digital gap by offering free, high-quality IT training to members of the SC and ST communities.
The scheme aims to make at least one person in every family in the state digitally literate. By offering structured, job-oriented training programs, it helps local youth, housewives, and citizens gain the skills needed in the modern digital age. Whether you are a student looking for a career boost or a professional aiming to update your tech knowledge, this scheme is made to support your growth.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Empowering Schedule Tribe-Schedule Caste Communities Using Information And Communication Technology Tools |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Goa |
| Category | Skills and Employment |
| Benefit Type | In Kind (Free Training) |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications |
| Implementing Agency | M/s Info Tech Corporation of Goa Limited (ITG) |
| Validity | 3 years from August 2025 |
Benefits
This scheme provides comprehensive support to make sure you have the skills needed for today's market:
Free IT Training: You receive access to various information technology training courses completely free of cost.
Customized Curriculum: Programs range from basic computer skills to advanced job-oriented courses, made to meet your specific community needs. For example, if a local student needs to master office software, he can find structured courses that fit his learning path.
Two Courses Per Year: Under the latest notification, eligible students can enroll in a maximum of two courses every year through the ITKCs. However, you cannot repeat any course you have already completed successfully in previous years.
Expert Implementation: M/s Info Tech Corporation of Goa Limited (ITG) manages the training delivery. They receive specific grants under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) and Schedule Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) to make sure learners like you receive quality education without any financial burden.
Eligibility
To participate, you should meet the following criteria:
You must be of Goan origin. You should belong to either the Scheduled Tribe (ST) or Scheduled Caste (SC) community. You must intend to enroll in courses offered through Information Technology Knowledge Centers (ITKCs) or other empanelled training centers managed by M/s Info Tech Corporation of Goa Limited (ITG).
There is no family income limit for this scheme, so it is open to all eligible SC and ST citizens. You also do not need to submit a separate residence certificate to apply.
Exclusions
Please note that you cannot receive the training benefit for the same course at multiple Information Technology Knowledge Centers (ITKCs) simultaneously. You should choose one center and stick to that enrollment to make sure your application is processed smoothly.
You can enroll in a maximum of two courses per year, and you are not allowed to repeat any course you have already completed successfully in previous years.
Application Process
You should follow these steps to start your learning journey:
STEP 1 - Visit the official IT Knowledge Center portal at itkc.goa.gov.in and register as a new user. You can also download and print the prescribed application form from the official notification.
STEP 2 - Fill in all required information clearly. Paste your passport-sized photograph onto the form and sign across it. Gather self-attested copies of your supporting documents.
STEP 3 - Submit your completed application in person at your chosen empanelled Information Technology Knowledge Center (ITKC), or apply online through the portal. Your application will be addressed to the Managing Director, Info Tech Corporation of Goa Limited, Panaji-Goa.
Documents
Please make sure you have these documents ready for your application:
A recent passport-sized photograph (with your signature). A self-attested copy of your caste or social status certificate (issued by the Deputy Collector). A self-attested copy of your educational qualifications. A copy of your birth certificate and your Aadhaar card. An undertaking stating that you have not availed more than two courses per year and are not repeating a completed course.
References
Official Scheme Notification 2025
Official IT Knowledge Center Portal
FAQ's
Do I need a residence certificate to apply?
No, you do not need to submit a separate residence certificate to avail of these benefits.
What are the rules regarding my photograph?
You should submit one passport-sized photograph with your signature placed on it.
Which communities are eligible for this program?
This scheme is exclusively for members of the Scheduled Tribe (ST) or Scheduled Caste (SC) communities.
Can I take the same course at two different centers?
No, you are not permitted to enroll in the same course at multiple centers at the same time.
How many courses can I take in a year?
Under the latest notification, you can enroll in a maximum of two courses per year under this scheme.
Can I repeat a course I have already completed?
No, you are not allowed to repeat any course you have successfully completed in previous years.
Is there an income limit for joining?
No, there is no family income limit for this scheme, making it accessible to all eligible SC/ST citizens.
Who should issue my caste certificate?
Your caste or social status certificate must be issued by the Deputy Collector.
Must I be from Goa to apply?
Yes, you must be of Goan origin to be eligible for this training.
Can I choose any IT course?
The scheme is specifically applicable to courses offered under the Information Technology Knowledge Centers (ITKCs).
Where must my training take place?
The training must be hosted at an IT center empanelled by M/s Info Tech Corporation of Goa Limited.
How does the funding for this work?
The Department of Information Technology provides a Grant-in-Aid under the TSP and SCSP to cover your training costs fully.
Where do I submit my paperwork?
You should submit your application directly to the empanelled ITKC where you plan to study, or apply online through the official portal.
Is there a specific application form I should use?
Yes, you must use the official application form provided in the scheme document.
How do I verify my educational qualifications?
Simply provide a self-attested copy of your educational certificates along with your application.