Weekly Newsbytes from NSN on skill development and education – 10th December 2024

In this week’s Newsbytes from NSN, we’re diving into the latest highlights focusing on India’s investment in the semiconductor industry, the launch of an AI skill development initiative, the launch of ICSSR Research Internship Programme, Udaipur emerging as a skill development hub for the furniture industry. EOI for drone training lab and more. We’ll also explore exclusive insights from the forefront of skill development, covering everything from groundbreaking initiatives to emerging trends in technology, NEP 2020, UGC, CSR, NCVET and more.

Here we go with this week’s edition of our weekly newsbytes,

Udaipur emerges as a Skill Development Hub for the Furniture Industry

Udaipur is emerging as a skill development hub for the furniture industry, with the Furniture and Fittings Skill Council (FFSC) organizing a five-day “Training of Trainers” program at Iraj Evolution Design Company. The initiative aims to equip trainers with essential skills to address industry gaps and enhance employment opportunities for youth. Following the program, specialized skill training in furniture design and manufacturing will be offered, with scholarships available for local participants, paving the way for career growth in the growing sector.

iMOVE facilitates MoU between NSDC and LM Care to mobilize Indian Nurses to Germany

iMOVE Germany facilitated a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among NSDC International, LM Care AG (a subsidiary of SM Care Solutions GmbH), and Aartees Education to enable the sourcing, training, and deployment of Indian Registered Nurses to Germany. The agreement was signed on December 3rd, 2024, marking a significant step toward addressing the demand for skilled healthcare professionals in Germany. Read more…

 Updates from the government

• The Odisha government has partnered with ITEES (Institute of Technical Education Education Services) to boost semiconductor skill development. This collaboration aims to create a skilled workforce to meet the growing demands of the semiconductor industry, supporting Odisha’s efforts to become a hub for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.
• India’s investment of over ₹298 crore in semiconductor skill development and capacity building over the last decade focusing on nurturing talent and expertise in the semiconductor sector to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals.
• The President of India laid the foundation stones for several developmental projects in Rairangpur, Odisha to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare facilities in the region, contributing to its socio-economic development and enhancing the quality of life for the local community.
• The 7th edition of the Smart India Hackathon, starting on December 11, 2024. This year’s event marks the largest edition yet, with a 240% increase in internal hackathons at the institute level to foster innovation and problem-solving among students while addressing real-world challenges through technology.
• The ICSSR Research Internship Programme in Social and Human Sciences was inaugurated by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan to nurture young researchers by providing opportunities to engage in social science research and contribute to evidence-based policymaking.
• The North Eastern Rural Livelihood Project (NERLP), which focuses on improving rural livelihoods across northeastern states aims to empower communities, especially women, by enhancing their skills, promoting sustainable income-generating activities, and strengthening local institutions.
• The Andhra Pradesh government has partnered with Google to launch an AI skill development initiative to equip students and professionals with artificial intelligence skills, fostering innovation and improving employability in emerging tech industries.
• The government highlighted the SAMARTH scheme and government initiatives to enhance youth employability in textiles, aligning with PM Modi’s vision for a $30 trillion economy.
• The government of Goa is planning to provide skill training to individuals in mining affected areas specially related to Tourism industry.
• The Prime Minister Internship Scheme’s pilot project began on December 2, with interns from 625 districts starting their roles across 34 states and UTs, while the formal launch event was postponed; over six lakh registrations were received on the internship portal.
• The National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) has officially recognized IN-SPACe as a dual awarding body, marking a milestone for vocational education in the space sector.
• The Ministry of Education launched PM e-VIDYA DTH Channel No. 31 for Indian Sign Language (ISL) in New Delhi, supporting the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to promote ISL and foster a more inclusive educational environment.
• The Karnataka government plans to  launch language classes for nursing students aiming for overseas careers.

Expression of Interest (EOI) for Drone Lab Solutions for Practical Training

The drone industry is evolving at an incredible pace, and training institutions need innovative solutions to prepare the next generation of skilled operators. Practical, hands-on training with advanced tools is no longer optional—it’s essential for staying ahead.

If you’re looking for advanced solutions to elevate your training programs, we’re here to help.

Express your interest here! 

Updates on CSR-skill development

• Hindustan Zinc has empowered dairy farmers by providing better milk prices, veterinary support, and sustainable farming practices, helping them secure financial stability and improved livelihoods.
• United Commercial Bank PLC conducted its 57th skill-development session in Munshiganj, training 150 agricultural entrepreneurs from six upazilas under its CSR initiative, “Bhoroshar Notun Janala.”
• Consistent Infosystems collaborates with NAB India Centre for Blind Women & Disability Studies in New Delhi to empower visually impaired women through skill development in areas like crafts, massage, and café management, reinforcing its CSR commitment.

To know more, check out the latest updates on CSR and ESG initiatives that are creating a meaningful impact in skill development and education here: https://nationalskillsnetwork.in/csr-and-esg-in-skill-education/

Stakeholder collaboration – Industry, Academia

• Gujarat’s ambitious plans for the green hydrogen sector, aims to position the state as a leader in clean energy. By 2030, the sector is expected to require 3,00,000 skilled workers to meet its growing demand.
• AISECT’s plans to enhance skill development in Northeast India aimed at equipping the region’s youth with industry-relevant skills, promoting entrepreneurship, and improving employability in sectors like IT, agriculture, and healthcare to drive economic growth and create sustainable livelihoods.
• ServiceNow has partnered with the Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC) to equip over 10,000 students with future-ready skills in its first year focusing on digital skills training to prepare students for careers in technology and innovation, aligning with industry demands and fostering employability in Tamil Nadu.
• Young India Skill University has partnered with top industries to provide students with job-focused training and skills to prepare students for careers by aligning education with industry needs, improving their chances of employment.
• Britannica Education in India, was launched to offer digital learning solutions for schools. The platform aims to enhance education by providing interactive, curriculum-aligned content and tools that support teachers and students.
• The Art of Living’s skill development programs aimed at empowering youth with job-oriented training and entrepreneurial skills focusing on enhancing employability, promoting self-reliance, and contributing to socio-economic development by equipping young individuals with practical skills across various sectors.
• NSDC International and Sompo Care have collaborated to enhance caregiver training in India to provide high-quality training programs, equipping caregivers with skills aligned to global standards, and addressing the growing demand for professional caregiving services in the healthcare and eldercare sectors.
• INKER Robotics launched India’s first ‘RoboPark’ in Thrissur with a ₹350 crore investment, partnering with Kerala Startup Mission to foster tech innovation, education, and industry collaboration.
• Phillips Additive is proud to announce its collaboration with Tata IIS to enhance skill development and technical training in India and establish the Additive Manufacturing division.
• The ‘Maru Udaan initiative started by the Barmer district administration seeks to empower women with education, healthcare, and financial literacy to boost their livelihood.
• The UGC issued draft guidelines on minimum standards for UG and PG degrees, inviting public feedback by December 23, 2024.