• September 21, 2025

NORKA Roots, German agency explore healthcare recruitment partnership in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram Sept 21: Kerala’s state-run recruitment agency NORKA Roots has announced a collaboration with Germany’s Deutsche Fachkräfteagentur für Gesundheits- und Pflegeberufe (DeFa), the federal agency that coordinates the recruitment of international healthcare professionals, to expand opportunities for nurses and allied staff from Kerala in Germany and other German-speaking countries.

According to NORKA Roots, “the initiative is aimed at streamlining the recruitment process for qualified nurses from Kerala, with provisions for German language training and support in recognition of professional qualifications.”

Officials said the arrangement is expected to open new pathways for skilled professionals in the state to secure placements in Germany’s healthcare sector, which has a strong demand for trained staff.

NORKA Roots Chief Executive Officer Ajith Kolassery represented the Kerala government agency at the signing held in Thiruvananthapuram. DeFa representatives, including senior officials handling legal and regional affairs, were also present.

DeFa, established by the German Government in 2019, facilitates international recruitment in the health and care sector, overseeing recognition of foreign qualifications and ensuring compliance with German labour standards.

Kerala has already been part of Germany’s “Triple Win” programme, which recruits nurses through NORKA Roots in cooperation with Germany’s Federal Employment Agency.

Officials said the new understanding with DeFa will complement existing initiatives such as Triple Win, Triple Win Trainee and Germany’s “Hand in Hand for International Talents (HiH)” programme, thereby expanding career prospects for Kerala’s healthcare professionals in Europe.