School Education Minister Shri Uday Pratap Singh has emphasized the need to promote skill development to enhance employment opportunities in the state. He highlighted the importance of providing skill training in various trades according to the current market demands. The minister expressed these views during a discussion with officials at the ministry.
To further this initiative, a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Madhya Pradesh State Open School Education Board and the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), New Delhi. Under this MoU, 93 types of skill development courses will be made available across the state. The agreement was signed by Shri Prabhat Raj Tiwari, Director of the State Open School Education Board, and Shri Shakeel Ahmed, Secretary of NIOS.
The introduction of skill development courses will benefit not only the general public but also women associated with the 'Ladli Behna' scheme. Women will be provided training based on their interests, helping them secure employment opportunities or start their own businesses, thus fostering self-reliance.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 lays special emphasis on integrating vocational education and skill development into the mainstream education system. To support this, youth in the state will have the opportunity to receive training through digital platforms such as computers and the internet.
The government also plans to introduce vocational education from Class 6, ensuring that students acquire practical skills alongside academic knowledge. This initiative will be extended to higher education, making youth more competent for employment.
Certification from NIOS Centers: The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) operates 23 regional centers and over 7,000 study centers across the country. These centers will facilitate enrollment, conduct examinations, and issue certificates to successful candidates, simplifying the entire process. Individuals who complete training will receive NIOS certification, which will enhance their employability and help them establish their own businesses.