Integrating internships in programs like BA presents challenges, but it's not impossible: AISECT University Chancellor

Santosh Choubey, Chancellor, AISECT University talks about university’s innovative approach to skill development and industry collaboration. In a recent interview with Shiksha.com, Choubey discussed their initiatives, including aligning programs with the National Education Policy (NEP) and National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF), offering integrated skill-based programs, and forging partnerships with industry bodies.

Q. You have recently won the Federation of Indian Publishers Award. Tell us about your contribution.

A. The Federation of Indian Publishers recognizes excellence in book quality, production, and presentation. AISECT Publications, for which we have been winning this award for the past three years, focuses on magazines and books. This year, we received the award for our magazine "Vanmali Katha" and our electronic Science Magazine. I believe we are among the few publishers simultaneously working on Science, Literature, and Hindi, which I find particularly fulfilling.

Q. Your university is more focused on skill development, and the NEP also emphasizes integrating vocational education and skill development. How is your University working in this area, post-NEP?

A. Our university has been committed to skill development for over 30 years, predating government initiatives in this area. We advocate for the integration of higher education and skill development, a principle now endorsed by the NEP. For instance, under the new policy, students pursuing programs like BA or B.Com are required to learn employable skills alongside their academic curriculum. We have aligned our offerings with the NEP, providing over 100 skill-based programs. For example, a B.Com student may learn Tally for accounting in the first semester, communication skills in the second year, and project writing skills in the third year, making them immediately employable upon graduation.

Q. Do you also provide internships along with the programs students pursue at your university? How is that being done?

A. Yes, we offer internship programs and on-campus events through various Centers of Excellence, such as those in Energy, Refrigeration, Mechanical Production, AI, and ML. Additionally, our online portal, AISECT to Learn, provides internship opportunities and project-based learning. We also offer certifications and have been recognized by the government for our initiatives, including receiving an Incubation Center from NITI Aayog.

Q. UGC is now talking about integrating internships along with regular graduation courses, such as BA and others, rather than just in technical programs. How feasible is it for a university to provide internships for students pursuing Bachelor of Arts or similar programs?

A. Integrating internships into non-technical programs like BA presents challenges, but it's not impossible. Universities need time and resources to establish infrastructure and partnerships. Our university, having already invested in such resources, is better prepared. However, it may take around a decade for universities to fully transition to this model, particularly through a cluster approach involving multiple colleges.

Q. Tell us something about your plan to launch NEP and NSQF Aligned SCOPE Global Skills University in Bhopal?

A. We have established the SCOPE Global Skills University aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF). This university represents a new category, distinct from traditional and private universities, focusing on domain-specific programs. We offer specialized programs such as BA in Logistics or BSc in Animation, with practical experience through corporate partnerships.

Q. Is it more like an integrated approach in which you are combining different courses from different streams for students to pursue and get ready for a career?

A. Yes, it's an industry-embedded program where students can gain practical experience while working. The term used is "industry-embedded program," allowing students to earn credits while working in the industry. The theory is delivered online, eliminating the need for physical attendance at the university.

Q. How will assessments be conducted for these programs?

A. Assessments involve online theory exams and practical evaluations conducted by industry experts at the workplace. The industry evaluates practical skills, and the university provides theoretical assessments. Students receive a combined mark sheet reflecting both aspects.

Q. Have you partnered with industry bodies to run these programs?

A. Yes, we have partnered with industry bodies such as CII and FICCI, as well as local chambers of commerce. These partnerships facilitate skill development and provide opportunities for employment or upskilling for employees.

Q. How do you view NEP's emphasis on enhancing children's language skills?

A. NEP's emphasis on improving language skills is crucial. Multilingualism enhances opportunities globally, as seen in the demand for engineers proficient in languages like German or Japanese. English proficiency remains essential, but proficiency in other languages can open doors in various industries and regions worldwide. Therefore, the emphasis on language skills in NEP is commendable and aligns with the evolving demands of the global workforce.