UGC Launches Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme
The University Grants Commission (UGC) in India is introducing the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP) to boost the employability of undergraduate students by integrating practical industry experience into their education. Draft guidelines for this programme were reviewed on October 3 and will soon be available for public feedback on the UGC website.
Programme Details
The AEDP aims to combine classroom learning with on-the-job training, helping students gain industry-relevant skills. The programme is applicable to undergraduate courses at UGC-recognized higher educational institutions (HEIs) that meet specific accreditation criteria. Apprenticeships can start from the second semester and may constitute up to 50% of the degree duration, with a minimum of one semester of continuous apprenticeship required.
Credit and Evaluation System
Credits are awarded based on training hours, aligned with the National Credit Framework. A full year of apprenticeship equals at least 40 credits. Evaluation involves industry professionals, faculty mentors, and the HEI. Students may receive stipends if the AEDP is offered through the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) or the Apprentices Act, 1961.
Implementation and Feedback
UGC Chairman Prof M Jagadesh Kumar highlighted the importance of experiential learning alongside theoretical knowledge. The guidelines encourage partnerships between HEIs and industries to align curricula with industry needs. A tripartite agreement between the HEI, industry, and student will define roles and responsibilities. Stakeholders, including students and the public, are invited to provide feedback on the draft guidelines before final implementation.
Doubts Revealed
UGC -: UGC stands for University Grants Commission. It is an organization in India that looks after the standards of universities and colleges. They make sure that the education provided is good and fair.
Apprenticeship -: An apprenticeship is a type of training where students learn by working with professionals. It helps them gain practical experience in a real job setting while they are still studying.
Degree Programme -: A degree programme is a course of study at a college or university. When students complete it, they earn a degree, like a Bachelor’s degree, which shows they have learned a lot about a certain subject.
Employability -: Employability means how likely a person is to get a job. It depends on their skills, experience, and education. The more employable someone is, the easier it is for them to find a job.
Credits -: Credits are points that students earn for completing courses or training. They are used to measure how much a student has learned and are needed to complete a degree.