Crucial role of skill-based education in the city's growth

Empowering the future workforce: Focus on vocational training & industry partnerships is shaping the future of innovation & entrepreneurship

NT Bengaluru: Bengaluru is not just a major city in technology and business innovation, but also a thriving hub for startups and entrepreneurship. With a strong presence in IT-related industries, the city has become a magnet for talent and innovation. To sustain its growth trajectory, there is a need to recognise the need for skill-based education, particularly in the IT sector. This focus is essential for nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs and equipping the workforce with skills needed to excel in a rapidly changing economy.

Need for skill-based education: Bengaluru's reputation as a technology hub creates a specific demand for vocational training and skill development. As Professor Rakesh Mediratta, Joint Director at JAGSoM (Jagdish Sheth School of Management), emphasises, the objective of these programmes is to provide industry- relevant training that prepares individuals for the job market. The goal is to reduce the training period required by employers, allowing new hires to be productive from day one. This requires programmes that are not only current but also deeply integrated with industry practices through internships and live projects.

Challenges and opportunities in vocational training: One of the primary challenges in vocational training is keeping up with the rapid pace of technological advancements.As Professor Rakesh notes, the fast-changing nature of technology can make it difficult to keep training programmes updated. Additionally, there is a need for better alignment between what is taught and what industries require. Prospective candidates often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of available courses, leading to confusion about which path to choose. A streamlined, structured approach to vocational training can help address this issue, ensuring that candidates receive relevant and up-to-date training. Despite these challenges, there are significant opportunities for growth in Bengaluru’s vocational training sector. Public-private partnerships can enhance programme quality, and there is a rising demand for specialised skills in emerging fields such as green energy and sustainable business.These trends highlight the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in vocational training programmes.

Role of industry partnerships: Industry partnerships play a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of vocational training programmes in Bengaluru. As Dr. Dwarika Prasad Uniyal, Vice Chancellor (i/c) at RV University, explains, these partnerships help ensure that curricula are aligned with current industry standards. Realtime feedback from industry partners allows for quick adjustments to training modules, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills most in demand. Moreover, these collaborations provide access to advanced tools and technologies, enabling hands-on experience that is vital for workforce readiness. Industry partnerships also facilitate internships, mentorship opportunities, and direct hiring pipelines, which significantly improve job placement rates for graduates.

Future of vocational training: The future of vocational training in Bengaluru looks promising as the city continues to grow as a tech and business hub. There is a strong emphasis on specialised skills and continuous learning, with new technologies like AI and digital platforms being integrated into training programmes.Additionally, there is a growing focus on soft skills and leadership training, preparing graduates to meet the evolving demands of the job market. By aligning their curricula with industry demands, integrating technology, and emphasising practical, hands-on experience, they ensure that their graduates are job-ready and equipped for leadership roles in a dynamic job market.