Infosys Dismisses Trainees After 2-Year Wait, Cites Poor Performance

Leading IT giant Infosys has once again made headlines by terminating 240 trainee employees for failing to meet the required standards in internal assessment tests conducted during the training period. The affected individuals were reportedly informed via email on April 18.

This development comes just months after a similar incident in February, when Infosys had dismissed over 300 trainees on the same grounds. The recent action has become a topic of discussion within IT circles.

According to national media reports, the termination email sent on April 18 stated: "Despite being given additional training time, doubt-clearing sessions, multiple mock assessments, and three attempts, you have not met the qualifying standards in the 'Generic Foundation Training Program'. As a result, you cannot continue your journey in the apprenticeship program."

However, Infosys has announced certain supportive measures for the trainees who lost their positions. The company will pay them one month’s salary as ex gratia. Additionally, they will receive relieving letters and access to professional outplacement services to assist in their job search. The email also noted that the company is offering two types of free training programs in partnership with organizations such as NIIT and UpGrad to support their future careers.

“You may apply for available opportunities at Infosys BPM Limited after successfully completing the training. If you wish to enhance your IT skills, you may opt for the Infosys-sponsored external training program to further support your IT career journey,” the email further stated.

Infosys added that transportation from the Mysuru training center to Bengaluru would be provided, along with a travel allowance for returning to their hometowns. If necessary, trainees can stay at the Employee Care Centre in Mysuru until their departure and can also access counseling services.

Notably, some of the trainees had reportedly waited for over two years for onboarding before being dismissed. These developments are unfolding against the backdrop of a global economic slowdown, which has led IT firms to cut costs on projects. Assessment results for the next batch of trainees at Infosys are expected to be released next week.