“NTTF provides a comprehensive education that prepares students for both immediate employment and future academic pursuits. The emphasis on holistic development, practical experience, and industry readiness sets NTTF apart as a premier institution for technical training,” says Mr. Suresh N, Head – Skill Development, NTTF
To learn more about getting industry-ready with technical training programs at NTTF, admission criteria for enrolling in NTTF courses, use of technology for practical learning, flexibility of courses, campus placements and more, we spoke with Mr. Suresh N, Head – Skill Development, NTTF.
Below are a few excerpts from our conversation. You can watch the full video on our YouTube channel.
Q. What are some of the top courses at NTTF where we see a lot of interest among students?
A. Year after year, we see significant improvements in all our courses and their enrollments. The top courses that we see an interest among students are:
- Mechatronics and Smart Factory
- Electronics and Embedded Systems
- Tool Engineering
- Digital Manufacturing
Although the admission season is still ongoing, based on current trends, Mechatronics and Smart Factory is likely to be our most enrolled program this year.
Q. What are the entry points and selection criteria for students wanting to enroll in courses different at various NTTF centers?
A. To ensure high employability, NTTF maintains a consistent eligibility and selection criteria across all its centers. Here are the key points:
1. Age Limit: Candidates should be below 24 years old to maximize employability.
2. Educational Qualification:
- Standard Entry: Completion of 10th standard (matriculation, CBSE, ICSE, SSLC, SSE) with Mathematics as a mandatory subject.
- Higher Entry: Students who have completed 12th standard or ITI can directly enter the second year of our three-year diploma programs. They need to complete a 120-hour bridge program (or 80 hours if transitioning from a non-related ITI trade).
3. Entrance Examination: A simple 10th standard level exam is required for entry, designed to be accessible for students from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
4. Special Programs:
- Postgraduate Programs: Require a graduate engineering degree in relevant technical fields like mechanical, instrumentation, or production engineering.
- B.Voc (Bachelor in Vocational Studies): Requires completion of 12th standard.
Additionally, all students can concurrently pursue certifications from NOCN UK, with specific criteria such as completing 12th standard for NOCN UK certification. These certifications enhance their qualifications, making them eligible for opportunities in the UK and Europe.
Q. How does NTTF ensure holistic development and successful placements for students enrolled in its technical education and training programs?
A. At NTTF, the focus is not just on teaching lessons but on teaching students how to learn and continuously upgrade themselves. The methodology emphasizes active, hands-on learning over passive instruction. Classes often take place in laboratories and workshops where students can directly apply what they learn, ensuring a deeper understanding of concepts.
Key aspects of NTTF’s approach include:
- Learn by Doing: Practical application is integrated with theoretical learning, leading to stronger retention of fundamentals. Classes are held in labs or workshops to facilitate this process.
- Holistic Development: Students are evaluated not only on technical skills but also on their overall behavior, presentation skills, and soft skills. Activities like discovery learning, green rack and red rack presentations, and shop talks help develop these skills.
- Daily Routines and Discipline: The curriculum includes morning assemblies with exercises, news readings, and principles of human resource management. Students learn values like compassion and teamwork, which are reinforced through cultural clubs and sports competitions.
- Teacher-Student Interaction: In a system reminiscent of the ancient Indian Gurukul, teachers live with students, providing a model for handling both personal and professional challenges.
- Industrial Exposure: Students train on industry-standard equipment, such as robots and 5-axis CNC machines, which prepares them to handle advanced technology confidently. This exposure eliminates the intimidation factor when they encounter similar equipment in the industry.
- Real-World Preparation: The structured daily schedule, including limited vacations and strict attendance policies, mirrors the discipline of a professional work environment. Students learn to manage their time and responsibilities effectively.
In terms of placements, NTTF graduates are industry-ready from day one, possessing both technical and interpersonal skills. The training includes operating advanced industrial equipment, making NTTF alumni highly sought after by employers. This readiness is evident in the low absenteeism rates and the high percentage of graduates securing employment.
Innovative Programs and Recognitions:
- Academic Equivalence: To enable students to pursue higher education, NTTF has aligned its programs with national and international standards. Students can gain qualifications from NOCN UK or NCC UK alongside their NTTF diplomas.
- NCVET Accreditation: NTTF is an awarding and assessment body under the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), giving national recognition to its programs.
- Credit Mobility and Multiple Entry/Exit Options: Students can earn credits that are portable and can be used for further studies. NTTF offers a flexible system where students can take breaks, work, and return to continue their education within a seven-year period.
- Word-of-Mouth Enrollments: NTTF’s reputation is built largely on word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied students and industry partners, reducing the need for extensive advertising and allowing more resources to be invested in infrastructure and training quality.
Q. Could you please provide more details about the postgraduate programs at NTTF, specifically for engineering graduates?
A. At NTTF, we’re committed to holistic education and inclusivity. For instance, we’ve broken gender stereotypes in technical fields by training the first lady toolmaker in Asia, Rajalakshmi. Our programs also cater to individuals with diverse abilities, offering specialized training in electronics and supporting those with physical disabilities for over 35 years, resulting in placements at top companies like Volvo and TVS.
Moving towards addressing the employability gap prevalent among graduates in India, particularly in technical domains, NTTF introduced postgraduate programs to bridge this divide. These programs emphasize practical skills crucial for industry readiness, taught by experienced industry professionals. Located exclusively in Bangalore’s Peenya campus, our School of Postgraduate Studies focuses on hands-on learning in modern design studios, fostering innovation and potentially evolving into a research hub.
Also read: NCVET Recognized Courses and the Future of Technical Training
Our aim is to equip graduates with directly applicable skills, significantly reducing the time typically required for industry adaptation post-graduation. This initiative not only supports immediate employment needs but also cultivates a culture of ongoing learning and innovation.
Q. Is there any advice you would like to share with the students?
A. NTTF welcomes students from all backgrounds, urban or rural, regardless of gender or English proficiency. Our unique “rope in” program, like the Navachetna camp, transforms students in their first 15 days on campus, preparing them for three impactful years ahead. Don’t see your rural background or language skills as obstacles; NTTF empowers everyone to succeed. Skill is now aspirational; it opens doors in industries traditionally seen as blue-collar. With NTTF, I’ve risen to CEO level in a multinational, proving that skill and knowledge combined lead to success. Embrace skilling—it’s essential and rewarding in today’s competitive world.
