Academic partnerships are critical to successful implementation of skill development programs. As per a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and Deakin University, Australia, the two organizations will collaborate on projects for conducting Data Analytics and Impact Evaluation Studies in the skills ecosystem. These projects are expected to bridge the skill gap and enhance quality training institutions across the country. The MoU is for a duration of five years and was exchanged between Mr. Manish Kumar, MD & CEO, NSDC and Ms. Kerrie Parker, CFO, Deakin University. The MoU was signed on 22nd September 2017 at Delhi.
Under this partnership, NSDC and Deakin University, will collaborate in the following areas:
- Deakin University will be a knowledge partner for NSDC towards developing an Impact Assessment (IA) and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) framework for its projects.
- Deakin University will be responsible for development of framework and methodology for data analytics and review of the existing data for generating insights.
- Deakin University may also undertake studies, analyses on datasets available with NSDC or data jointly gathered between both. Jointly organize workshops, seminars, conferences etc. for knowledge sharing on various research, analytics and impact assessment aspects.
Speaking on the partnership with Deakin University, Manish Kumar, MD & CEO, NSDC said, “NSDC aims to promote employable skills across the country. Deakin University, being one of the foremost institutions in Australia providing real-world expertise and practical skills, will work with us on data analytics to integrate business-critical information into our workflows. We believe this partnership would strengthen the process of skill development in India.”
Kerrie Parker, CFO, Deakin University said, “Deakin’s partnership with the NSDC is a key development in the University’s relationship with India, and a powerful opportunity for us to bring our expertise to a government organisation already operating at the highest levels. Deakin has a long history of working with local and international industry and business to turn ideas into commercial reality, solve real world problems and provide current and future employees with the skills they need for 21st century careers. Our researchers are constantly developing new tools and technologies that harness data for practical use.”
The MoU signing ceremony was followed by a workshop on Impact Evaluation and Data Analytics by Deakin University, Australia, wherein sessions were conducted on Data Analytics, Demand Aggregation and on Impact Evaluation.
(This article is based on a press release from NSDC)
