Key Highlights
- Proposed Setup at Existing NSTIs
- The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) is considering establishing the recently announced five National Centres of Excellence (CoEs) at existing National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs).
- The strategy includes upgrading NSTIs with state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced training equipment, and globally aligned curricula.
- Focus on Industry Collaboration
- Emphasis on partnerships with industries for curriculum design and training frameworks.
- Development of structured frameworks for instructor training, including continuous learning programs, certifications, and incentives to attract top talent.
- Manufacturing Sector Skilling Priority
- Special focus on creating a skilled workforce for the manufacturing sector through upgraded and new courses.
- Courses will feature multiple entry and exit options to enhance flexibility for students and professionals.
- Higher NSQF-Level Courses
- The CoEs will operationalise higher-level NSQF courses (levels 5 to 8), currently underrepresented in the skill development ecosystem.
- Global Partnerships for Skilling
- The government may collaborate with countries with advanced vocational training systems for technical expertise, certification design, and international mobility opportunities for skilled workers.
- Industry-Led Skilling and Reskilling
- Industries may be given autonomy to design and implement skilling and reskilling programs for their workforce, promoting self-sustainability.
- Role of State Governments and Industry Stakeholders
- Discussions are ongoing to define the role of state governments and private sector stakeholders in managing the CoEs.
- Quality benchmarks and governance models are also under review.
- Existing NSTI Network
- There are currently 33 NSTIs in India, primarily responsible for training trainers for ITIs and industries through specialized, hands-on skill transfer methods.
- Budget 2024 Announcement
- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of these five CoEs, emphasizing global partnerships for ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ manufacturing goals.
The planned establishment of five National Centres of Excellence (CoEs) signals a significant boost to India’s skill development ecosystem. By upgrading NSTIs with global expertise, industry collaboration, and advanced curricula, the initiative aims to create a robust skilled workforce for the manufacturing sector and beyond. With a focus on higher NSQF-level courses and international partnerships, these CoEs are set to play a key role in making India a global hub for skilled talent.
