The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) have formed a partnership to integrate skill-based courses into higher education and improve academic verification in India. This initiative aims to strengthen the credibility of Indian qualifications globally while equipping students with future-ready skills.
Strengthening Credential Verification
A technology-driven verification system will be developed for academic and skill qualifications awarded by Indian institutions. By using the National Academic Depository (NAD) and institution-level data, universities and colleges can streamline the verification process through online interfaces or API integration. This system will increase the efficiency and reliability of credential validation.
According to Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, COO (Officiating CEO) of NSDC and MD of NSDC International, the partnership reflects NSDC’s mission to empower India’s workforce. He stated that aligning academic and skill-based credentials within a secure framework will improve global recognition of Indian qualifications.
Global Academic Equivalence Platform
The partnership will also introduce a global academic equivalence platform to compare certificates, diplomas, and degrees worldwide. AIU will provide the equivalence framework and algorithms, while NSDC will handle the platform’s technology infrastructure. This platform will make it easier for students and institutions to validate qualifications internationally, strengthening India’s reputation in the global education sector.
Combating Fraud and Enhancing Transparency
To prevent fraud and ensure transparency, the NSDC Trust Platform will serve as the backbone for credential validation. AIU will encourage its network of institutions to adopt this platform for direct verification from issuing institutions. This approach will improve the accuracy and trustworthiness of the verification process.
Prof. Vinay Kumar Pathak, President of AIU, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. He said that integrating skill education with academic programs will help create a future-ready workforce equipped with both theoretical and practical knowledge.
Future Impact
This initiative is expected to:
✔ Boost global trust in Indian academic and skill-based qualifications.
✔ Simplify credential verification through secure digital platforms.
✔ Improve employment opportunities for Indian graduates worldwide.
✔ Strengthen India’s position as a provider of skilled talent.
Conclusion
The NSDC and AIU partnership marks a significant step toward aligning India’s higher education system with global standards. By combining academic and skill-based education with a reliable credential verification framework, this initiative will provide students with better career opportunities and enhance the credibility of Indian qualifications globally.
