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Nurturing Employable Work Force in Jharkhand

Nurturing Employable Work Force in Jharkhand

Rakesh Kumar SinghDepartment of Labour, Employment and Training has taken various initiatives for the employment and skill training of youth in Jharkhand, says Rakesh Kumar Singh, Special Secretary– Labour, Employment and Training, and Director- Employment and Training, Government of Jharkhand.

What is the role of Department of Labour, Employment and Training in protecting the rights of workforce in organised and unorganised sector                                                                                   of Jharkhand?

According to the minimum Wages Act, it is ensured that wages are paid acecording to the skill category of workforce. We also ensure that the salary of workers in factories and shops is credited into their bank account. For the workers in unorganised sector, we are getting them registered and opening their bank accounts linked with Aadhaar cards for the safe and timely credit of their wages. We are also running different social security schemes for the benefit of workers in organised and unorganised sectors.

How the skill training is helping the workforce in getting exposure to employment opportunities?

The skilled workers have more chances of getting employed over unskilled workers. We are working extensively on skill training of workforce like for the ITI pass out trainees; we ensure that different recruitment camps are held regularly for their employment in different companies, organisations, factories or industries. A number of such drives have been conducted and more are proposed to be organised. We have contributed to the vision of Jharkhand chief minister of awarding appointment letter to 25,000 youth. Since November 1, we have awarded appointment letters to a good number of ITI pass outs who are now employed in different companies.

What initiatives have been taken by the department to ensure  employability among youth?

We act as a bridge between prospective trainees/employees and employers. So far, we have organised 43 employment exchange programmes. The portal jharkhandrojgar.nic. in has around 4 lakh registered youth under different categories such as nurses and as per different ITI trade. Whenever an employee registers on the portal in search of employees, we send SmS to all the trainees as per the eligibility criteria. The department then organises recruitment camps for selection of candidates as per their skills. For example, Apollo has recruited 21 nurses out of the trainees registered on our portal through a recently held employment exchange programme.

We have established Ranchi ITI as model ITI for which government of India has provided the financial grant. We are focussing on initiatives like centres of Excellence. At centres of Excellence, trainees get exposure of trades along with training of soft skills and computer operations. In current financial year, we are developing nine more ITIs as model ITIs

Soft skills are now an essential part of skill training, what is the role of Department of Labour, Employment and Training on that front?

We are inviting counselors in employment exchange programmes. We have also developed counselling centres to council the trainees. counselors help the trainees in improving their behaviour, language skills and if required suggest them to enroll in any short term training course for the same. We also refer candidates to JSDMS for soft skill training. In ITIs, seminars and talk shows are conducted for the candidates to improve their personality.

“During Momentum Jharkhand, different industries have participated in search of skilled manpower. We are trying to bring reputed employers across the nation. The summit will help the nation to know the immense potential Jharkhand has in the form of skilled workforce.”

What is the department’s road map for realising the chief minister’s vision of skilling 20 lakh youth of Jharkhand till 2022?

We have 59 Government ITIs and around 250 private ITIs which train around 30,000 candidates annually. by 2022, we have been given the target to train 2 lakh candidates out of 20 lakh which is achievable as per our current rate.

“Skill Summit 2018” is one of its kind conferences in India, what role will the conference play in bringing all the stakeholders on a common platform?

During momentum Jharkhand, different industries have participated in search of skilled manpower. We are trying to bring reputed employers across the nation. The summit will help the nation to know the immense potential Jharkhand has in the form of skilled workforce. It will boost the hiring of work force from the State as per the industry demand. The summit is expected to fulfill chief minster’s vision. It will take Jharkhand’s skill development programme to a new level and people will also get aware about the importance of skill.

What message would you like to give to the youth of Jharkhand?

According to prime minister of India, “skilling yourself is important” to take the advantage of Government’s various schemes, nowadays skills are also required along with degrees for students to be employable as practical training is equally important along with theoretical knowledge.

Self Assessment Vital in Choosing a Career

Choosing the right career is one of the most important decisions in a student’s life. One should take care of certain important factors while taking the decision, says Prof V S Rao, President, NIIT University, in conversation with Akash Tomer of Elets News Network (ENN).

Better higher education results in improved career opportunities. What factors students should keep in mind while selecting a specialisation for their graduation and further studies?

Prof V S Rao, President, NIIT University,
Prof V S Rao, President, NIIT University,

Nowadays, various specialisations have emerged along with the traditional options. While these specialisations have further implications on one’s career, one should always keep in mind the following factors while considering any
specialisation:

Aptitude and Understanding: One should have a thorough understanding of what subjects and fields interest her/him to make an informed choice.

Academic Performance: One should look back at one’s performance in different subjects in class X and XII to understand what have been her/his strengths.

Aspiration: Another most important aspect is to figure out what one wants to do in the coming years; one should choose the field according to the job he aspires to bag.

Internship/Placement Opportunities: It is no revelation that your education is not fruitful unless you get good internship and placement offers. One should always check with the placement reports of an institute to get a firsthand report.

Graduation degrees in India usually revolve around the traditional courses like engineering, medical etc., what is the scope of nontraditional courses as far as Indian education space is concerned?
The most important decision a student takes right after clearing high school is choosing the right career for herself/himself, which would make or mar their professional life. Engineering, medical etc have always been the coveted career options. But there are other courses also available nowadays to pursue right after high school, and which also have promising careers as far as education space is concerned.

What are the most important factors that a candidate must consider before seeking admission in a college or university? 

Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions a student ever makes. One should keep in mind the following factors while taking admission to a college or university:

Academic Excellence: Students must have the information about the curriculum, teaching-learning practices, technology used in teaching-learning, quality of faculty etc before taking admission to any college.

Opportunities to participate in real time industry projects: Student should look for institutes/universities
which offer opportunities to participate in real time projects in industry.

Residential Schools: Residential schools offer 24×7 opportunities to bring about holistic development of a student.

Community: College experience should be about challenging and learning as much about self. One should
always look at community as an opportunity to branch out.

What are the best higher education practices followed across the globe? How can these practices be carried out in India to improve the higher education scenario of the country?

The online education and newer technology-enabled platforms are changing the way education is resourced and delivered. Over the next 10 years, e-learning is projected to grow fifteen-fold, accounting for 30% of all educational provision. Within higher education, new technologies have enormous potential to effect change. They enable universities to meet a broader range of learners’ needs, adapting traditional teaching methods and offering a mix of face-to-face and online learning possibilities that allow individuals to learn anywhere, anytime.

Despite a phenomenal expansion in the education system in our country, Indian universities don’t stand alongside the universities abroad, how this scenario can be improved?

As per industry data, India holds an important place in the global education industry as it has more than 1.4 million schools with over 227 million students enrolled and more than 36,000 higher education institutes. India has become the second largest market for e-learning after the US. The Central Government has done its best to make the study opportunities flexible in nature to facilitate optimal student participation. Skill development and vocational education has added a new feather to the modern system of education.

Also, now the education is only text book oriented. Courses are not industry-aligned which is causing unemployability among the youth. This is a massive challenge and one of the solutions is by forging a strong linkage between academia and industry.

Other than career benefits, how higher education helps a candidate in availing various social and personal benefits?
Education is generally considered to be the greatest equaliser in modern society. There are not only career benefits of education, but it also helps a candidate in availing various social and personal benefits such as better salaries, job satisfaction, contributing to the society a better way thus creating a better society to live in etc. Therefore, higher education is not only the key to growth in career graph, but also boosts self-confidence.

How the Indian and global education landscape has evolved in recent years? What role does educational conferences play in this evolution?
Indian and global education has many facets that existed from the historic times to the present day. Students were the passive party in the classroom where the lessons were mostly teacher oriented and more emphasis was given to the theoretical way of learning. Academics was not industry oriented which resulted in a less competitive
market.

Today, Indian institutions are working towards promoting industry-academia interface. NIIT University (NU), being one of these premier institutions, has designed programmes in collaboration with organisations such as Esri, ICICI Bank, Federal Bank, United Bank and Bank of Maharashtra, Microsoft Research, IBM, WNS, etc which not only offer students career opportunities but also equips them with the ability to adapt and grow throughout their careers.

NSDC: Imparting Skills to Propel Economic Growth

NSDC aims to promote skill development by catalyzing creation of large, quality and for-profit vocational institutions, says Manish Kumar, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), in an interview with Poulami Chatterjee of Elets News Network (ENN).

Since the launch of Skill India Mission, how much National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has achieved so far as per its vision?

Manish Kumar, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)
Manish Kumar, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)

The Skill India Mission was launched in July 2015 to expedite government’s effort in providing skill training to the youth. With a mission to position India as the skill capital of the world, the Skill India Mission was instituted to expand the scale and reach of the initiatives effectively. So far, over 1.24 crore people have received training through various programmes.

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has collaborated with industries, corporate houses, states, government bodies as well as other ministries to ensure its effective implementation. As on December 2017, over 19 lakh candidates received skilled training under PMKVY – 1 and another 14 lakh has been trained in its second phase till now. Further, over 5 lakh skilled workforce has received formal certification under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) component of PMKVY. The government has also established 200+ state-of-art Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK) and another 250 such centres are in pipeline. The Government plans to have one such centre in every district of India.

During 2014-17, 453 women received skill training across 10 NVTIs/RVTIs. The number of ITIs has increased from 10,750 to 13,353 and efforts are being made for ITIs to grant certificates equivalent to class 10th and 12th of CBSE.

Also, India International Skill Centers (IISC) have been set up for people who wish to work in foreign countries. the NSDC helps them hone their skills as they embark on undertaking job opportunities in another country. We are planning to establish 100 such centres across the country. There has been an added emphasis on promoting entrepreneurship among country’youth under PM-YUVA scheme.

NSDC is being set up to implement Skill India Mission. What are the challenges faced by the mission? What strategies are followed by NSDC to overcome those challenges?

India boasts of a huge demographic dividend and has the second largest workforce in the world. However, with the improvement in technology, automation has taken over most of the labour oriented jobs, which makes it necessary to up-skill and re-skill the work force all across the globe. At the same time it is very important to bridge the gap between skill training and job opportunities available. This gap is hampering the recruitment of even suitably trained candidates in an industry.

NSDC is working towards addressing these challenges and to bridge the existing gaps. Sector Skill Councils have been set up to identify the demands and opportunities that each sector entails and ensure that the most relevant and recent skill training is provided to the candidates. The training curriculum is regularly updated, and the opportunities are identified and leveraged. Efforts are being made to skill, re-skill, up-skill as well as multi- skill employees to ensure that they sustain their jobs and grow further.

To bridge the industry-academia gap, NSDC conducts skill training courses in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models. Please give details about such courses. 

NSDC is trying to develop an enabling environment for skill development which is based on relevant and up-to-date industry practices. the National Skill Development Coordination Board is being set up under chairmanship of the Deputy Chairman of the planning Commission in the public private partnership mode (ppp). The board will formulate strategies on skill development and monitor implementation of the same. Further, it ensures that proper skill training is being provided to candidates and simultaneously suggests strategies to address regional and social imbalances that might potentially hinder its effectiveness.

Under this model, the NSDC collaborates with a public-sector unit or a corporate house where they provide training to the candidates as well as opportunities for employment. These initiatives help the students to know their areas of improvement provide them exposure of industry expectations.

The Udaan Initiative for the youth of Jammu & kashmir (J&k) is one of the recent initiatives that follows the ppp model and provides skill training and helps in creating job opportunities for graduate and postgraduate youth of J&k.

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has set up India International Skill Centre (IISC). What are its objectives and key focus areas? 

India International Skill Centers (IISCs) were set up to provide vocational training to youth aspiring for job opportunities globally. IISCs have been set up by NSDC in association with Ministry of External Affairs and implemented under the pradhan Mantri kushal Vikas Yojna and pravasi kaushal Vikas Yojana (pkVY). Apart from technical skills, the programme emphasises training on language and soft skills modules. the training provided at these centers, help youth hone their skills at par with the international standards and ensure that the youth seeking global mobility are well equipped and confident to take on any challenge across the world.

What are NSDC’s future plans to make youths of India skillful and employable?

India has a huge potential for skill training and NSDC, under the aegis of MSDE, is working towards creating an inclusive and equitable environment for vocational training. The initiatives and schemes are helping the candidates become more competent and job ready. The efforts are further expedited through collaborations with industries across all verticals, as well as other ministries and government bodies.

NSDC plans to expand its reach to all the parts of the country by setting up Ppradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras in each district and aim to open 100 International Skill Centres by 2018. We further, wish to expand the number of training centers which will provide state-of-theart skill training to the candidates. Also, NSDC is planning to provide training in futuristic job roles such as Automation, 3D printing, Artificial Intelligence among others, which may help youth earn a better livelihood and contribute towards building New India.

Jharkhand is emerging as the skill hub of the country. How the NSDC is supporting the State to skill its youth?

Jhankhand is a state that is bustling with opportunities and the skilling opportunities are abound in the state. Jharkhand Skill Development Mission entered an MoU with the NSDC to improve the employability of the candidates undergoing skills training. the NSDC has identified Construction, tourism, travel and Hospitality, Mining, Real Estate, transport and Logistics, It-ItES, Food processing, Healthcare, and Banking and Financial services as major verticals that attract youth in terms of job opportunities in the state and will further collaborate with
JSDMS to provide more opportunities to the youth in the state.

How other schemes like Digital Indiavand Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana can be leveraged to boost the skill ecosystem in Jharkhand?

People of Jharkhand have recognised the importance of skills to enhance their competence and employability, digital connectivity will help ensure last mile connectivity of the people and help generate new jobs. the PMKVY scheme under ‘Skill India’ Mission can enable the youth to get several blue-collar jobs as those who receivetraining under this initiative are awarded with a formal certificate on clearing the assessment.  This can validate their training and help them get access to better job prospects.

What message you would like to give to the youth of India?

Skill training is a necessity in today’s scenario. It is imperative to constantly up-skill and re-skill to remain relevant in the growing economy like India. With new opportunities every day and innovations constantly upgrading the lifestyle of people, it is necessary to adapt to these changes through skill and vocational training.

What message you would like to give for Jharkhand Skill Summit to be held on Jan 12, 2018?

Jharkhand Skill Summit is an encouraging initiative which would bring together stakeholders from different walks of life on one platform and help strengthen the skill ecosystem in the state. the event will also play an important role in defining the road map for the future of skills in the state and develop Jharkhand as the hub for skilled manpower. On behalf of NSDC, I take this opportunity to wish Jharkhand Government and Jharkhand Skill Development Mission the very best for the event.

Emerging Trends in Indian Education Sector

A number of new trends have emerged on the Indian education scene and a number of modern ideas are floating around. These ideas promise to transform Indian education. Shobhit Goyal, Secretary, Quantum University, observes these new trends and the underlying reasons for their emergence.

Outcome Based Learning and Skill Development:

Shobhit Goyal, Secretary, Quantum UniversityIncreasingly, new and mindboggling discoveries are being made which straddle multiple disciplines. Subject areas are increasingly becoming dependent on a multiplicity of fields. Consequently single disciplines are being rendered difficult and require an interdisciplinary aptitude for assimilating and application. This is however not achieved with contemporary educational landscape which is steeped in theoretical learning andage old curricula with a chilling irreverence for experimental-application based education. This very absence of practical learning has led to the prevalence of ‘skill gap’ incapacitating students to work in various domains. A number of studies have confirmed it.

It has emerged that, of the 15 million graduates entering the market each year, about 75% lack the basic soft skills and technical knowhow to execute the core tasks. A McKinsey report indicates that only 25% of Indian engineers are actually employable. Off late the same statistic has fallen to less than 20%. Aspiring Minds, in a recent survey, conclude that 95% of engineers can’t code. Consequently a number of young Indians lack employability due to‘skill gap’.These glaring figures highlighting skills gapand unemployment exhort us to overhaul the education system and replace it with something which streamlines our education.

Interdisciplinary Education

Interdisciplinary education aims to achieve skill development thus lowering the skill gap. The most salient feature of this learning paradigm is to embrace the disparate features to bolster multidimensional learning experience. The pedagogy aims and delivers education in such a manner that the students can confidentially execute tasks that form the core of a particular domain. This leads to better professional avenues and development. Moreover the building up of specialized skill increases the chances to move in the field of research and development. Thus interdisciplinary learning helps acquire the ability to deliver goal based education.

The inherent structure of the educational pedagogy enables easily expansion of a particular skill set to a number of allied multidisciplinary disciplines. The students can not only adapt to new situations but can see themselves graduating to new levels of expertise in the core subjects. This entails easily scalable skills and employability in corporate-industrial domain.

Advantages

An interdisciplinary education equipswide ranging creative and critical thinking augmenting lateral thinking, analytical reasoning,interpersonal ability, communication skills, ethical perspectives, cultural literacyand global perspectives. The greatest skill it endows is an orientation toapplication ofknowledge mostly motivated through hands on work training and real-world experiences.It helps students to be sensitized to socio-economic, political and environment issues building a deeper relationship with the world around. A student learning via this approach not only emerges as a capable professional but also a responsible citizen with wide ranging sensibilities.

Interdisciplinary learning is implemented via ‘credit system.’ A credit quantifies the learning goals as also the effort put in to achieve the. Earning credits entitle Major and minor degrees. A Major is a specialization in a particular discipline. A Minor is a subject allied to the core subject pursued in the Major or a subject of general interest. Thus it presents the students a spectrum of choice.

Pedagogy

The interdisciplinary pedagogy is a unique strength. It works on the principle that all learners are different with individual talents and lacunae. Hence the instruction must be based on the students’ personal orientation, tastes, needs and goals. The instruction is thus guided by individual need. The hallmark of this pedagogyis experiential learningto working across disciplines. The student-centered instructionfacilitates and delivers learning in an intrinsically interdisciplinary,experiential and constructivist manner.

A novel approach is employed for pedagogical effect using unconventional methods and technologies which includesimulation-based games and virtual environments. Seminars, workshops, role play,live projects, experimental demonstration and continuous assessment are the inherent tools of this regimen.Hence a more practical, applied, experience-based education is developed.

Role of Quantum University

Quantum University has already emerged as a brand in education sculpting an entire generation of technocrats and professionals enriching the corporate and the industrial arenaand numerous other domains. The University has become a vehicle of this concept in India. The concept, already established in the West, fostered there a culture of enterprise, research and knowledge creation. It has not only boostedeconomic strength but also benefited the society in general, by molding constructive thinking.

The ’new age ‘curriculaat Quantum open a world of choice before students. Hence they can earn a Major in Engineering while pursuing a Minor in Economics. Similarly the students have the freedom to pursue a Minor in Graphic Design or any subject unrelated to the specialization. The Major-Minor combination is chosen on the basis of student individual choice and goals.

Culture of Skill Development at Quantum University

Quantum University has made skill development and practical learning the hallmark of its education. To achieve this,a robust training program has beenfollowed since the inception of the institution.Students can gain hands-on training in a number of fields. This strengthens their employability and prospects of growth in a professional arena. The University collaboration with APS GMBH (The European Center for Robotics)Germany to deliver cutting edge expertise for the Robotics specialization program is a template for our commitment to skill development.

It is evident that interdisciplinary education has the potential to remedy a number of ills in prevalent education. It can deliver students from a rigid educationwith itsflexible learning modes and subject choices. It offers a range of skills to preparethe student forvibrant roles in the professional and personal domain. It promises a new age of holistic learning and personal development.

World Bank and ICAI to organise training programmes for insolvency professionals

World Bank in association with Indian Institute of Insolvency Professionals of ICAI (IIIPI) is going to organise three training programmes for insolvency professionals (IP) with the first being held at Mumbai.

The first of its kind programme in India will witness the global experts disseminating knowledge and best practices followed worldwide in the sections of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

ICAI President, CA Nilesh Shivji Vikamsey said, “The Insolvency and Bankruptcy code is still in the nascent stages in India. And this is the time where right knowledge dissemination is required for creating a robust pool of professionals in our country. In the training sessions the best of minds will share their knowledge from across the globe.”

During the programme, case studies will be illustrated to cover the “Role and Functions of IPs”. The sessions organised from January 18 to 20, 2018, at Mumbai will cover various aspects of insolvency laws. The programme under the aegis of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IIIBI) will be organised at various centers by IIIPI and the World Bank Group.

“World Bank and IIIPI has prepared the training modules, keeping in mind the Indian scenario but also made sure that the best practices followed worldwide are made available to the insolvency professionals”, Vikamsey added.

MVGU — Nurturing Globally Competitive Citizens

Our students are provided with academic tools, practical skills, and real world opportunities necessary to advance as leaders in their professions and their communities, says K L Mina, Founder Chairperson, Maharaj Vinayak Global University (MVGU) in conversation with Elets News Nework (ENN).

What is the vision of Maharaj Vinayak Global University?

K L MinaMaharaj Vinayak Global University has pioneered private technical, medical and higher education institutions in Rajasthan. We, at MVGU, offer the best platform to absorb knowledge from all sources and enable our students to access endless opportunities available in the global market. We are committed to instil leadership and offer internationalised curricula in all the core medical and technical courses to shape the future of our students.

Your university has been consistent in academic excellence, what has been the secret? Share us about your journey. 

Maharaj Vinayak Society was the first institute which got an no-objection certificate from the government to open Jaipur Dental College, the first dental college in the State. We started offering our courses initially under Rajasthan University. Later, we were affiliated to University of Medical & Health Sciences. We have established the first private Nursing, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy colleges in Rajasthan. The Jaipur Dental College has been awarded as the best dental college of North India for four consecutive years.

What kind of infrastructure, resource and technology related facilities are made available to the students to boost learning capabilities? 

Our courses are primarily in medical and allied sciences. These courses demand sophisticated and high end equipments and we have ensured the availability of every such equipment in Dental, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, and Physiotherapy stream. We have outsourced the equipments from Germany and Canada also.

For placement of our students from every course we bring in teams from USA, Canada, and Australia to groom our students for the international job market.

What are the distinct courses offered by your university? As far as career prospect is concerned, do you offer any value additions in the learning process to offer best exposure to your students and increase their domain knowledge? 

Jaipur Nursing College is the first nursing college that offers B Sc degree and caters to the growing demand of allied medical services. Jaipur Physiotherapy and Occupational therapy colleges are the first ever in the state to offer these kinds of studies. These colleges not only ensured the quality higher but also offered training as per latest industry to the students of Rajasthan.

How do the courses at Maharaj Vinayak Global University make its students ready for the employment market? 

Be it dental, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, law etc, all these subjects offers attractive career prospects in government, public and private sector. These courses are highly promising from self employment point of view. In addition, students are encouraged to organise and participate in seminars and conferences.

IECS – On a Mission to Build New Tomorrow

Our vision is to be the best solution provider in education segment and to deliver best global practices to the society, says Manish Mansharamani, Director, International Electronics & Communication Systems Pvt Ltd, in conversation with Elets News Netework (ENN).

What was your vision behind establishing the IECS? 

Manish Mansharamani, Director, International Electronics & Communication Systems Pvt Ltd
Manish Mansharamani, Director, International Electronics & Communication Systems Pvt Ltd

Established in 1991, International Electronics & Communication System Pvt. Ltd (IECS) as an ISO:9001:2008 is now a leading solution provider in the field of education. With great pride we share that IECS has successfully implemented over 5,000 interactive classes in pan-India.

IECS is driven by a single corporate principle – Customer-oriented approach. We work closely with our clients, right from the concept to completion and that’s the basis of the long-term relationship with our clients – a strong partnership built on trust, integrity and commitment. Our vision is to be the best solution provider in education segment and become most innovative, reliable, effective, sustainable and relationship-based company.

Education is one of the most promising segments in India but still we are lagging far behind globally, what needs to be done to improve education scenario?
The mindset needs to be changed at decision-making level. Indian brains are superior in the world, we have been only deprived off infrastructure and facilities. Given these basics in current scenario where technology is available we can be number one and competing in the world at any level.

We should have schemes and schools that provide good education to children living in villages. Also, it should be assured that good and experienced teachers are there to impart education to children.

“Education segment is growing segment in India. We will invest more on technology upgradation and will bring latest innovative products for education field for all level.”

Also, focus on teachers training, our country has already got many training programmes for teachers. Educating parents is equally important so that they do not force their children for careers which do not actually interest them. Implementing Smart Classes though many of the educational institutes are already following this concept, but we should take a step where all educational institutes can be connected with the concept of smart classes. With the help of different audio-video devices, multimedia concepts and other necessary IT elements, we can make our students learn and understand in a much better and modern way.

What do you think of the impact of technology on education? How technology can help in improving educational scenario in rural areas? 

Technology has a very positive impact on education. Teachers and students should take advantage of this in good light and eliminate the drawbacks which are pulling back many of students as well as educational institutes from achieving. Students are able to learn on a global scale without ever leaving their classrooms. Technology can enhance literacy development, provide greater access to information, support learning, motivate students, and enhance their self-esteem.

The education system of today demands changes of meet the local and global needs. It is strongly felt that the kind of education a student receives must ensure to be an investment for the future. In a world increasingly dependent on technology whether it is at home or institution students and teachers must be fluent in technology. Digitisation in education has transformed the learning as well as teaching methodologies to a great extent.

We all know how helpful it is to remember something that is taught visually to us rather than the one that is read through pages. Just imagine, how beneficial would it be for students to understand a chapter visually in class. The concept of smart class education is indeed a blessing to the students of the 21st century.

Shridhar University Offering Skill Oriented Courses

Majority of Shridhar University students come from rural area and they look up for employment rather than startup. Since most of our students want job oriented training, we are laying emphasis on that aspect, says Brig Kartar Singh (Retd), Vice-Chancellor of Shridhar University, in conversation with Elets News Network (ENN).

What interventions the Shridhar University is taking for ‘skilling’ and enhancing ‘employability’ of the students? 

Brig Kartar Singh (Retd), Vice-Chancellor of Shridhar University
Brig Kartar Singh (Retd), Vice-Chancellor of Shridhar University

It is a well-established fact that employment today is directly proportional to knowledge, skill and attitude popularly known as KSA. While a student is put through the prescribed “knowledge” capsule through the prescribed syllabus, he is not given any particular skills as formal input. We, at Shridhar University, conduct “Skill” capsule to include:

  • Soft Skill including communication skills
  • Social Skills
  • General knowledge and environmental skills

As far as “attitude” is concerned it is developed through actual conduct and formal lectures by senior specialists and psychologists.

What are the initiatives Shridhar University has undertaken in the Student Startup domain? 

Majority of our students come from rural area and they look up for employment rather than startup. However, we do realise that as a higher educational institute we should look into this aspect. As we are finding that most of our students want job-oriented training we are laying emphasis on that aspect presently. In case, the need arises, we will
take initiatives towards Startup.

Many countries have started introducing Artificial Intelligence(AI), Coding etc. in the curriculum.
What initiatives is the Shridhar University undertaking to make students competent with the
emerging technological trend? 

Shridhar University is a technology and livelihood-oriented university. As far as technology is concerned we are having collaboration with Computer Aided Designs (CAD) as also we teach cloud computing techniques. However, we have not yet reached the state of AI, and virtual reality level. We do cater for practical, livelihood related and daily useable technology needs as part of our teaching. We teach web designing, CAD and software programmers related to daily and domestic use.

Shridhar University is a technology and livelihood-oriented university. As far as technology is concerned, we are having collaboration with CAD and also teach cloud computing techniques.

Internship plays a vital role in enhancing the employability of students. Highlight the initiatives of Shridhar University has undertaken to facilitate internship for students to provide them hands-on experience within a corporate working environment?
This is our strongest core strength. We conduct internship with industry for a full semester. These internships are conducted with popular names which also help in giving us offer letter during the internship.

Types of Internships Conducted:

Agriculture Students: These students get a RAWE (Rural Agriculture Work Experience) with Krishi Vikas Kendra and rural agriculture based companies in our own States. They see the students working for full semester (nearly six months). Depending upon their performance they give offer letter. Our first B.Sc (Agriculture) has got 100 per cent
employment.

Diploma Courses: Our Diploma and post-Diploma courses do a PDPT Training with Government and semi-Government coal fields and during this training they are offered job based on three-month training with the company. Our Diploma – Mining students find nearly 100 percent employment in the coal industry immediately after passing out.

Hotel Management Courses: We do internship, pre-placement training and finally placement training with UEI Global an international brand in hospitality management. Majority of our students find job as per their capability and choice with the help of internship training.

Preparing Industry-ready Student via Internship

Sandip University, Nashik (SUN) is trying to be a creator of world-class educational service provider thereby to transform the potential human resource of the nation, says Col Prof N Ramachandran, Vice-Chancellor, Sandip University, Nashik, in a conversation with Dipen Pradhan of Elets News Network (ENN).

Sandip University, Nashik (SUN) has recently signed a MoU with AICTE-ECI to facilitate Internship programme for the students. Tell us how the university plans to take it forward?

Col Prof N Ramachandran, Vice-Chancellor, Sandip University, Nashik
Col Prof N Ramachandran, Vice-Chancellor, Sandip University, Nashik

AICTE-ECI approach of signing a MoU with the universities across India to facilitate advancement of engineering,  management and pharmacy profession in various programmes and for enhancing the style and image of building engineers, managers and pharmacist etc, is a boon to the nation-building exercise on Human Resource
Development. The move is historical in nature which will bring a rich dividend in near future.

Sandip University, Nashik, a non-affiliating private university functioning in the State of Maharashtra, which is continuously improving its infrastructure – will be used to hone the knowledge and skills of our students. We follow
outcome-based education in teaching-learning process. We emphasise on knowledge, skills and attitude for all the courses taught. For every course, teacher sets her/his objectives in an achievable form. Hence, preaching and practicing are carried out together to achieve the objectives in the form of measurable outcomes.

This MoU will facilitate every student in their respective domain to acquire necessary skills in various industries/R&D organisations on a real-time basis. Minds-on and Hands-on will make them ready for Do-on by taking up their real-time challenges.

SUN and its regulations have made compulsory internship in 15, 21, and 45 days during the summer vacation after completing I, II and III year programmes assigned with 1, 2 and 3 credits respectively. Besides summer internship, regular industrial/field/project visits are also happening during the academic sessions. All our programmes are aimed to develop industry/society ready graduates.

What are the initiatives Sandip University has undertaken to foster Student Startup ecosystem in the affiliated colleges and university to enhance students’ innovation?

Sandip University, Nashik has a vision to mould our youngsters into Millennium leaders not only in technological and scientific fields, but also to nurture and strengthen the innate goodness and human nature in them and to equip them to face the future challenges in technological breakthroughs, information explosions and deliver the bounties of
frontier knowledge for the benefit of humanity in general, the downtrodden and the underprivileged in particular.

We are committed to practice the vision of the University. SUN is trying to be a creator of world class educational service provider thereby to transform the potential human resource of the nation. Curricula have been designed to imbibe research – bent in every course. The system is developed in such a way that every student could think and work independently, resulting ideas leading to a product/process etc. Co-curricular activities are focused towards social, economical, political orientation – thus encouraging students either by individual/groups to take up such life-oriented problems.

“NEETI will reduce lots of redoing exercise of many, but before implementation, MHRD should ensure every one’s interest is well addressed and protected.”

Nashik has a rich treasure of having Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) in seven locations of Nashik District, covering Automobile, Energy, Electrical, Infrastructure and Infotech industries. This facilitates students/staff to work along with their minor/major problems, which really make the individual to realise their life goals. Another facility in Nashik, established by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is Nashik Engineering Cluster (NEC), which works for preparing Nashik Industries to face the global market by achieving global quality assurance standards. This facility is also open to youths to take up their startups in their premises at an affordable cost.

SUN has been collaborating with many MIDCs and NEC and Central Government’s R&D organisations to give exposure to its students/staff. These practices make students/staff to involve jointly on developments of practical/live issues, which leads to develop an ecosystem which I strongly believe that leads to many new and innovative ways to create incubation centres, new startups.

SUN, its campus has Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development Cell (IEDC) supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. This cell promotes and facilitates our students to become an
entrepreneur and also helping them in registering their intellectual property rights.

What strategies or methodologies have been adopted by the University to enhance students’ teaching-learning experience? 

SUN is creating various infrastructures to serve students of different backgrounds, abilities and other personal attributes through its effective Teaching-Learning Experiences (TLE). We follow the following strategies to enhance TLEs:

  • We have signed a MoU with Spoken Tutorial project carried out by IITB, Mumbai, to have many ICT interventions
  • All classrooms/seminar halls/theatres are made ICT enabled
  • Our teaching-learning system is more of student centric which enables everyone to practice participative learning, experimental learning and collaborative learning
  • Curriculum also encourages Activity Based Learning (ABL), Project Based Learning (PBL) and Research Based Learning (RBL)
  • Our Outcome Based Education (OBE) system encourages every student and staff to use ICT gadgets at every possible level to improvise the learning curve better

We are practicing Action plan 17-by-17, a digital initiative guided Minister for Human Resource Development Prakash Javadekar.

SUN and its regulations have made compulsory internship in 15 days, 21 days and 45 days during the summer vacation after completing I, II and III year programmes assigned with 1, 2 and 3 credits respectively. All our programmes are aimed to develop Industry-ready graduates.

The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) is planning a major reshuffle in India’s technical education through the implementation of the single National Entrance Examination for Technical Institutions (NEETI) from January 2018, which includes teacher training and annual revision  of curriculum, among others. How prepared is the University?

Change is inevitable, growth is optional; but we in SUN adopt changes as our policy – by adapting it in a way one can enjoy it. Following this dictum of change, we have initiated many changes in our curriculum-design, teaching-learning process, recruitment and retaining the talented teachers in our midst, evaluation process and reforms,
promotions and research facilities, resource mobilisation for research, publications and awards and innovation ecosystem, etc., thereby we are aligning with MHRD and implementation of such things that are happening in the Campus through our dedicated trained faculty and with the cooperation of diligent student community – thus
again guided and supported by our Trust namely “Sandip Foundation”.

In the 21st century, knowledge is the primary production resource instead of capital or labour. Efficient utilisation of this existing knowledge may create comprehensive wealth for the nation in the form of better education.

Proposing NEETI is a welcome move. At the same time, sufficient time and preparations to the aspiring students of Higher Secondary Education, parents and allied stakeholders are very important. NEETI will reduce lots of re-doing exercise of many, but before implementation, MHRD should ensure every one’s interest is well addressed and protected.

What message do you have for the technical graduates, who would soon embark on their career paths?

My message to the technical graduates and other students who are likely to exit from various Higher Educational Institutions are:

  • To exercise self-discipline and self-denial
  • To work on character and competence
  • To dedicate their talents and resources to noble purposes and to provide services to others and nation

Mewar University – Preparing Industry-Ready Students

The specifically formulated training/internship module offered in Mewar University is not only helping students in acquiring the required skill sets but also helping them to find their dream jobs, Dr Ashok Kumar Gadiya, Chairman, Mewar University, writes for Elets News Network (ENN).

Dr Ashok Kumar Gadiya, Chairman, Mewar University
Dr Ashok Kumar Gadiya, Chairman, Mewar University

We, at Mewar University, believe that education is a powerful means to transform a society, which itself is changing rapidly in ways that will profoundly impact the role of universities in the 21st century. Significant changes have been noticed in higher education, including innovations in curricular design, pedagogy and examinations reforms. However, there is a dire need of bridging the gap between Industry and Academia to be aligned. As a university, we will have to understand the industry’s ever changing requirements and have to develop industry-oriented  curriculum, which can nurture the students accordingly.

Our goal has been to create highly skilled professionals for the top echelons of both public and private sector enterprises who are also equally dedicated to the cause of our nation’s socio-economic growth. Our students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds continue to receive rigorous training to further their technical, managerial and leadership capabilities.

Mewar University offering industry-specific courses:

Mewar UniversityThe University offer courses on the job training with practical exposure as an in-built feature of the curriculum. Skill development of the students is an integral part. Focusing on the same, University has devised its course curriculum in such a way that attending a short term training in a reputed Govt/Semi Govt institutes like Indo-German Tool Rooms (IGTR ), Advance training Institute (ATI ), Central Tool Room (CTI ) National Academy of Construction
(NAC) and many such other organizations is mandatory for all the students, which later is followed by a six months internship during the last semester of the course.

The goal has been to create highly skilled professionals for top echelons of public and private sector enterprises.

This specifically formulated Training/Internship module is not only helping the students in acquiring the required skill sets but is also helping them in their search for getting their dream jobs. For this, university boasts a full-fledged Training and Placement cell which looks into the execution of training /internship and placement programmes.

As a outcome of these initiatives today the university is proud to have its students working in most admired organization like Infosys, Accenture, Hitachi, Ceat, Caparo, Philips, Mahindra, Mitsubishi, Citibank, IBM, HDFC, ICICI etc., to name few.

It is less than ten years of being into existence but the milestones achieved during these years reflect the untiring efforts of the management, due to which students from 29 states of the country have chosen Mewar University for their higher studies.

Standing to its commitment of producing dynamic leaders in all the fields, who will make a difference with their knowledge and skills. Mewar University has pledged to offer Best Teaching, Best Training, Best Counselling, Best Placement, Best Research to all its students.

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