Kerala University is set to introduce a six-month paid apprenticeship program for final-semester students enrolled in its Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) in arts, science, and commerce. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace experience, helping students develop practical skills and improve their employment prospects.
- The Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP) will begin in the current academic year.
- Stipends range from Rs 9,600 to Rs 12,300 depending on the student's qualification.
- The program is initially for university departments, with plans to extend to affiliated colleges.
- Implementation is under the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) and Board of Apprenticeship Training (Southern Region).
- Approval from the university's Academic Council is pending before the program officially starts.
What is the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP)?
The AEDP is a new initiative under the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BoAT) of the Union Ministry of Education. It integrates apprenticeship training with academic degrees to provide students with hands-on experience in their fields. By participating in this program, students can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their skills and employability.
Who is eligible for the apprenticeship program?
The program targets final-semester students enrolled in Kerala University's Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) across arts, science, and commerce streams. Initially, the apprenticeship will be available within the university's own departments. There are plans to extend the program to affiliated colleges after the initial phase.
What are the stipend details for apprentices?
According to the University of Kerala's official social media, the stipend amounts vary based on the student's qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree or BTech students will receive Rs 12,300 per month.
- Diploma students will get Rs 10,900 per month.
- Vocational degree students will receive Rs 9,600 per month.
This financial support aims to encourage student participation and provide economic assistance during the apprenticeship period.
How will the apprenticeship improve student employability?
The Higher Education Minister, Roji M John, emphasized that the apprenticeship program will help students gain practical experience and develop professional skills while still in college. This exposure to real workplace environments is expected to make students more job-ready and increase their chances of employment after graduation.
What are the next steps for the program's implementation?
The University of Kerala is currently awaiting approval from its Academic Council and completing necessary formalities before officially launching the apprenticeship scheme. Further details regarding eligibility criteria, participating departments, apprenticeship placements, and the application process will be shared once approvals are secured.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the apprenticeship program start?
A: The program is planned to begin in the current academic year, pending final approvals from the university's Academic Council.
Q: Who can participate in the apprenticeship program?
A: Final-semester students enrolled in the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) in arts, science, and commerce at Kerala University are eligible initially.
Q: What is the stipend amount for apprentices?
A: Stipends range from Rs 9,600 to Rs 12,300 per month depending on the student's qualification level.
Q: Will the program be available to affiliated colleges?
A: The program will start within the university departments and may be extended to affiliated colleges in a later phase.
