Sustainable Industry-Academia Partnerships for Skill Education in India – Episode 1

As part of a mini-series from NSN, leaders from prominent Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) were invited to discuss the pivotal role of sustainable industry-academia partnerships in shaping India’s skill education landscape. This discussion aims to strengthen awareness about the opportunities presented by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The series is geared towards initiating innovative collaborations between academia and the industry.

Click on the link below to the next episodes of the Conversation:

Sustainable Industry-Academia Partnerships for Skill Education in India – Episode 2

Sustainable Industry-Academia Partnerships for Skill Education in India – Episode 3

Moderated by Dr. Madhuri Dubey, Founder and Director of NSN, the dialogue featured insights from:

• Dr. Abhilasha Gaur, CEO, Electronics Sector Skills Council of India (ESSCI)
• Mr. Arindam Lahiri, CEO, Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC)
• Mr. Ravikanth Yamarthy, CEO, Logistics Sector Skill Council (LSC)

Here are some of the highlights from the episode. To watch the full episode, please visit our YouTube channel.

Key Highlights from Episode 1: Sustainable Industry-Academia Partnerships for Skill Education in India

Industry-Integrated Curriculum and Vocational Education

In this first episode, the discussion underscored the imperative of integrating industry requirements into educational curricula under NEP 2020, focusing on the steps taken by SSCs to help educational institutions and training companies implement key provisions like industry-integrated curriculum as per new NSQF levels and credit framework. Key initiatives include developing industry-integrated curricula and facilitating collaborations between institutions and industries.

Mr. Arindam Lahiri, CEO, ASDC, emphasized the crucial aspects of integrating vocational education under NEP 2020. “As far as the Automotive Sector Skill Council (ASDC) is concerned, we’re supported by the industry’s main bodies: SIAM, ACMA, and FADA. This positions us across the entire automotive value chain, from R&D to sales and service, and even into electronics as vehicles become more software-defined.”

He highlighted the complexities and innovations emerging across the automotive sector, driven by new educational frameworks and standards. As the council spans the entire automotive value chain, from R&D to sales, Mr. Arindam Lahiri emphasized the need for multidisciplinary education. He underscored the challenge of bridging gaps between software development and mechanical engineering, crucial for modern automotive design and functionality.

Mr. Arindam Lahiri stressed the importance of integrating various disciplines to meet industry demands effectively. Also, highlighted the sector’s integration of various educational disciplines, spanning engineering (mechanical, electrical, electronics) and non-engineering fields like ergonomics and psychology, essential for vehicle design. He emphasized the challenge of finding engineers well-versed in both automotive technology and software development. Many colleges still don’t fully appreciate that software plays a critical role beyond traditional IT sectors in the automotive industry.

Dr. Abhilasha Gaur, CEO of ESSCI, discussed advancements in the electronics sector’s initiatives, particularly in higher education under NEP 2020. Dr. Abhilasha Gaur stated “Sustainability is crucial for us. We aim to sustain the scaling ecosystem by aligning education with industry needs. Initially focused on school leavers, our scope now extends to diploma, engineering, and beyond.” “We’ve structured the Electronics Sector into 9 sub-sectors, covering electronics systems design, manufacturing, and more. This approach supports diverse job roles and aligns with the NEP’s educational verticals,” she added.

Dr. Abhilasha Gaur emphasized tailored short-term skilling programs, complementing foundational degrees with specialized training in areas like mechatronics, IoT, and embedded systems. This strategy enhances employability, echoing NEP 2020’s emphasis on value-added programs. “Our programs, ranging from 30 to 90 hours, now align seamlessly with university semesters, facilitating smoother integration into academic curricula.” This adaptation includes custom courses and support for institutions seeking to incorporate industry-relevant electives, ensuring comprehensive alignment with educational frameworks.

Mr. Ravikanth Yamarthy, CEO of LSSC, shared insights into apprenticeship and degree programs launched since 2019, formalized under NEP 2020 with UGC accreditation. “We initiated the apprenticeship and degree programs back in 2019, and they were formalized under the NEP in 2020, receiving accreditation from UGC. This framework allows us to embed these programs within existing curricula or offer them as additional courses. Currently, we’re offering specialized programs such as BBA logistics and BMS in maritime logistics, catering to specific subsectors. Our approach includes both plain courses and apprenticeship-embedded programs, aligning with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). We’ve partnered with over 120 institutions, benefiting around 2,900 students. Looking forward, we’re enhancing sustainability by starting sensitization programs at the school level to encourage early interest in logistics careers post 12th grade.”

Also read: How MSME training institutions can foster sustainable industry-academia collaboration

Mr. Ravikanth Yamarthy, also spoke about how they’ve launched postgraduate programs and international collaborations to meet evolving industry demands. Programs like diploma in logistics technology cater to the growing need for automation expertise in warehouses.

“We’re also addressing skills gaps with initiatives like weekend courses through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and exploring options for online degree programs. In essence, our goal is to provide comprehensive skill development pathways that ensure a seamless progression through various educational levels and industry demands.”

This episode underscores proactive initiatives by Sector Skill Councils, including apprenticeship-embedded degree programs and specialized courses in electronics and automotive sectors. With NEP 2020, there’s a heightened focus on embedding sustainability into skill development, aiming to reduce dropout rates and guide individuals towards aspirational career paths early on. Embracing this proactive stance promises a robust and inclusive skilling ecosystem for India’s future.