KOLKATA, WEST BENGAL, INDIA, October 18, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — As India grapples with a significant shortage of well-trained, skilled workers—despite being one of the world’s youngest countries, with over 54% of its population under the age of 25—Medhavi Skills University (MSU) is leading the charge in transforming the nation’s skilling ecosystem through its innovative Work Integrated Skills-based Higher Education (WISE) initiative.
According to a report by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), only an estimated 2.3% of the Indian workforce has received formal skill training, a stark contrast to countries like the UK (68%), Germany (75%), the USA (52%), and Japan (80%). To address this gap, MSU is committed to supporting the national Skill India Mission by providing educational opportunities that extend beyond traditional classroom settings.
Transforming Education Through WISE
The WISE initiative integrates the principles of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to create a unique educational framework that merges academic theory with industry experience. This innovative approach aims to align education with industry needs, fostering employability and equipping students with the skills required for today’s dynamic job market.
As Pravesh Dudani, Founder & Chancellor of Medhavi Skills University, states, “The future of India’s workforce lies in aligning education with industry needs. Our WISE initiative, guided by NEP 2020, integrates cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the curriculum to create an immersive, industry-driven learning experience.”
Industry-Immersive Learning
With the concept of “Industry As Campus,” the WISE initiative redefines how students gain theoretical and practical knowledge. By collaborating with diverse sectors such as healthcare, technology, hospitality, fashion design, and aerospace, MSU allows students to pursue certified degrees while simultaneously earning a salary. This model enhances the accessibility and relevance of higher education in the current job market.
Through embedded apprenticeships and on-the-job training, WISE ensures that learners not only grasp academic theory but also acquire hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Addressing Employability Challenges
An ASSOCHAM study highlights that only 10% of Indian graduates are employable, indicating a significant disconnect between academia and industry. The WISE initiative addresses this gap by partnering with industry leaders to develop recognized certifications and degree programs that meet the demands of the job market.
These collaborations benefit both students and industries. While students gain exposure to real-time projects and advanced application ecosystems, industries benefit from a steady stream of well-trained, work-ready individuals, ultimately reducing attrition and recruitment training costs.
With partnerships involving notable companies such as iACE, Polaris, NHQ Studios, Ahalia, B4M Entertainments, IHG, and AEQUS, MSU ensures that its curriculum remains relevant and aligned with the latest industry trends and technological advancements.
Moreover, MSU has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and other defense forces, extending its WISE programs to defense personnel and their families, thereby broadening its impact.
Innovative Frameworks for Skill Development
The WISE initiative focuses on aligning education with industry needs through work-integrated programs, preparing students for careers in Industry 4.0. By utilizing the National Credit Framework (NCrF) established by the UGC, MSU integrates experiential learning, such as internships and apprenticeships, into its academic curricula. This innovative creditization system allows students to earn academic credits for practical industry exposure, thus bridging the gap between theory and application.
A Comprehensive Approach to Skills Acquisition
In addition to technical skills, students develop crucial soft skills, problem-solving abilities, and an entrepreneurial mindset, all vital for success in today’s competitive job market. The WISE initiative equips students with real-world capabilities, fosters professional networks, and often provides financial support through paid placements.
According to The Economic Times, over 80% of students participating in work-oriented degree programs reported improved employability compared to traditional graduates. As industries continue to evolve, integrating practical learning through initiatives like WISE is essential to cultivating a highly skilled and adaptable workforce prepared to meet future challenges.
