UGC Introduces Mandatory Apprenticeship for Undergraduate Students from 2025-26

 

UGC Introduces Mandatory Apprenticeship for Undergraduate Students from 2025-26

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced its first-ever mandatory apprenticeship guidelines for undergraduate students, set to take effect from the academic session 2025-26. This move is in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to enhance students' employability, bridge the gap between academia and industry, and address skill shortages in various sectors.

New Apprenticeship Guidelines

Mandatory Apprenticeship Duration

Under the revised framework, students enrolled in undergraduate degree programs must complete apprenticeship training as part of their academic curriculum. The duration of the apprenticeship will vary based on the length of the degree program:

• Three-year undergraduate programs: Apprenticeship training spanning one to three semesters.
• Four-year undergraduate programs: Apprenticeship training spanning two to four semesters.

The guidelines also state that students will be awarded 10 credit scores upon successfully completing a three-month apprenticeship. This structured approach ensures students gain practical experience and acquire job-ready skills during their education.

Implementation and Institutional Responsibilities

Higher education institutions (HEIs) will play a crucial role in implementing the new apprenticeship program. The UGC has outlined a structured approach to ensure a smooth transition:

• Institutional Registration: Universities and colleges must register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal to facilitate student placements in various industries.
• Industry Collaboration: Institutions will determine the number of apprenticeship seats based on their existing industry collaborations and available facilities.
• Financial Assistance: Students undergoing apprenticeship training will receive a stipend, co-funded by the industry and the central government, to financially support them during the training period.

Academic Recognition and Marksheet Inclusion

As part of the initiative, the UGC mandates that institutions must incorporate apprenticeship details into students' academic records. Key features include:

• Inclusion in Marksheets: Students' marksheets will reflect the apprenticeship details, including credit scores earned during the training.
• Final Semester Requirement: While apprenticeship training will not be conducted in the first semester, it will be compulsory in the final semester to ensure students gain real-world exposure before graduating.

Significance of Industry-Linked Education

The primary objective of this initiative is to integrate practical learning with academic education, thereby making students more job-ready. Some of the key benefits include:

• Enhanced Employability: Hands-on experience during apprenticeship training will significantly improve job prospects for graduates.
• Industry-Academia Collaboration: Strengthening ties between educational institutions and industries will help align the curriculum with real-world job requirements.
• Financial Support for Students: The stipend provided during apprenticeships ensures that students receive monetary assistance while gaining valuable industry exposure.

Future Implications

The UGC's decision to introduce mandatory apprenticeships represents a transformational shift in higher education. By embedding industry exposure into the undergraduate curriculum, the initiative aims to:

• Reduce the skill gap between academia and industry.
• Provide students with a competitive edge in the job market.
• Foster a culture of experiential learning.

Overall, this policy marks a significant step toward bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, creating a more competent and industry-ready workforce for India’s growing economy.

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