Pune: In a significant move to address the skills gap between education and industry requirements, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced the introduction of a new degree course known as the Apprentice Embedded Degree Programme. This innovative course will integrate formal classroom learning with practical training, preparing students for the demands of the workforce. Recognizing the urgent need to align academic curricula with industry needs, the UGC has stipulated that only institutions ranked within the top 200 of the National Institutional Ranking Scheme (NIRF) and holding an A category accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) will be eligible to offer this program.
In a circular released to various stakeholders, the UGC has invited feedback and objections regarding the new course until November 18. Following this period, the commission plans to implement the syllabus for the January-February academic session, aiming to create a robust educational framework that emphasizes industry-relevant skills. "The goal is to bridge the gap between what is taught in the classroom and what the industry demands," a UGC spokesperson stated. "This curriculum is designed to be responsive to the dynamic needs of the job market, ensuring that university programs equip graduates with the necessary competencies."
The Apprentice Embedded Degree Programme combines traditional academic teaching with hands-on work experience, with training expected to commence from the second semester. The UGC has indicated that this training component could comprise up to 50 percent of the total syllabus. Following the National Credit Scheme, students will earn credits based on their training duration, with 30 hours of training equating to one credit, allowing for a maximum of 40 credits in a year’s training. Moreover, the course will adopt a multiple entry and exit system, providing flexibility for students. Institutions offering this program will also be required to maintain ongoing communication with graduates to assess the course's effectiveness.
To participate, establishments must have a workforce of at least four employees, with larger organizations required to hire trainee candidates from the course. The UGC mandates that a minimum of five percent of the total workforce, including contract employees, should be designated for trainees and skill certificate holders. The central government is set to establish autonomous regional boards, such as the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOT), in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Kanpur to oversee the implementation of this initiative. With the Apprentice Embedded Degree Programme, the UGC aims to create a more employable graduate pool, making significant strides toward enhancing the synergy between educational institutions and the industry.