Introduction
In the ever-changing job market of today, where the needs and demands of the industry are not fully met by the traditional education system, AISECT University has come up with the unique concept of the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Program (AEDP) to reduce the gap between what is taught in classrooms and application based experiential learning. This collaboration between Academia & Industry is also helping students to get equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitude, and practical experience required to be competent to be a part of any organization from day one.
What is the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Program (AEDP)?
The AEDP is an innovative academic initiative developed in partnership with academia, industry, and sector skill councils (SSC). This is a three-year program commensurate with the New Education Policy (NEP) and UGC guidelines, which offers students not only an opportunity for academic learning but also guaranteed apprenticeships. In the first year itself, starting from the first semester, students are provided stipends. Over the three years of this course, students will get experience to become industry ready upon completion of their course.
How AEDP Works
The operations of AEDP systems are based on the tripartite MOU involving the university, industry partners, and SSCs. This formal agreement helps to ensure that the program fulfils various industries’ skill requirements and provides students with real-world workplaces.
Flexi MOU
Under the Flexi MOU, candidates are enrolled in the DGT Portal. With this approach, industries can customize their training programs based on their specific needs. The trainees get a chance to work in an industry setting where they practice using current methods and technologies. It implies that by the time of completion, these individuals will have competent knowledge of the existing industry standards and norms.
Learn and Earn
The Learn and Earn scheme, sponsored by the government of Madhya Pradesh, reimburses organizations for up to 75% of the total stipends paid to learners. This is only for candidates from Madhya Pradesh and includes on-the-job training (OJT) components which make it an economical option for both students and employers.
Benefits of AEDP
For Students:
- Real-World Experience: AEDP offers work experience in the chosen field that provides significant exposure, making students more attractive to potential employers.
- Financial Support: The program provides a guaranteed stipend that complements the student’s financial situation.
- Industry-Relevant Skills: AEDP programs are designed to address industry needs, providing the opportunity to acquire in-demand skills.
- Flexible Learning: The program provides multiple entry and exit points that allow students to progress through certifications, diplomas, or degrees.
Benefits for Industry:
- Customized Training: This program allows an industry to design a program that meets its specific needs and ensures a graduate is ready to hit the ground running.
- Cost-Effective: AEDP’s Learn and Earn model lightens the financial investment of employer stipends with a subsidy for a significant portion of the stipend cost.
- Skilled Workforce: By engaging with the ADEP program, industries contribute to building a pool of skilled professionals with the appropriate knowledge of current technologies and best practices.
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Companies can sponsor students as one of their CSR initiatives, assisting in the development of a highly skilled workforce.
Impact on Education and Industry Collaboration
AEDP will change the game in terms of collaboration between education and industry. The program is more than a partnership; it is an innovative model that brings together educational institutions and industry partners in close collaboration to create the next generation of highly skilled professionals. The essence of having an apprenticeship model embedded in the degree program is to ensure that students are work-ready when they graduate. In addition, this model is also beneficial to the industry in that they have access to a reliable source of skilled workers who are prepared to enter industrial life.
Future Prospects
The success of the AEDP at AISECT University is a leading light for many other stakeholders in the educational sector. It is expected that we will see a higher emphasis on industry collaboration and practical training in the future of education as more universities adopt similar models. This transformation means that graduates will bring with them not only the knowledge but also the relevant skills for their potential roles.
Conclusion
AISECT University’s Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Program (AEDP) breaks new ground in higher education by seamlessly combining academic learning and practical experience. The AEDP model sets a standard for industry collaboration. It assures that students graduate with the knowledge and credentials they need, and industry benefits from a well-trained workforce. Through this collaboration, it is clear that AISECT has pioneered the future of education and industry partnerships, linking the two to benefit all stakeholders.
