Infosys's pre-training changes leave 1,500 new hires in limbo
Infosys has initiated two rounds of pre-training for approximately 1,500 students from the April 2022 batch having offer letters. However, only about 115 students have been given a joining date of September 2. The remaining students are left in uncertainty regarding their job prospects, as reported by the Economic Times. This situation highlights the broader challenges in tech sector recruitment due to economic uncertainties and rising automation.
Infosys's pre-training program: A detailed look
In July, Infosys conducted a mandatory 24-day virtual pre-training program for all selected students. This was followed by another self-learning module-based pre-training this month, which resulted in joining dates being assigned to 115 students. However, for the remaining students, there is limited clarity on the assessment process and some have reported confusion regarding login credentials for the second pre-training round. No rejection letters have been issued yet, according to the report.
Second pre-training round: What is known?
Earlier this month, students received an email from Infosys's recruitment team about a second six-week virtual pre-training from August 19. This included a self-learning module and an in-person assessment across cities. The email stated that those who clear the competency tests would be invited to join an in-person training program, but failure could lead to deferment of joining dates or discontinuation of engagement with Infosys.
Students express concerns over the process
Some students have expressed concerns about mandatory pre-training, stating they left their existing jobs in anticipation of joining Infosys. One student told ET, "The July training was given by Mysuru-based educators while the August training is all self-learning, and the assessment is still pending." "Some are given online tests but not everyone has all the details of the next steps. Earlier, IT companies used to give salaries during the training period. The July and August training period was not paid."
NITES files complaint against Infosys over delayed onboarding
The Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES) has filed a complaint against Infosys with the Labour and Employment Ministry over the delayed onboarding of freshers selected for system engineer (SE) and digital SE positions with annual packages ranging from ₹3.2 to ₹3.7 lakh. Since April 2022, around 2,000 graduates are waiting to hear from Infosys. Some have found other jobs while others continue to wait as the subdued tech services industry impacts job opportunities in India and globally.