IIT Patna, TeamLease EdTech, & NSDC Unveils Innovative Work-Linked Degree Programs for Enhanced Employability

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TeamLease EdTech and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to boost graduate employability. This collaborative effort aims to introduce an alternative format of higher education that may seamlessly integrate high-quality formal education, skill development, and enhanced employer connectivity.

IIT Patna is set to launch five innovative work-linked degree programs under this MoU. It will cater to the evolving needs of the job market. The programs offered under this initiative include

• Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA - general)
• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Information Technology
•  BSc in Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning
•  BSc in Cloud Technology
•  Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Emerging Business.

The prospective students who have secured a minimum of 60% marks in the relevant stream in Class 12 can enroll in these programs. The enrollment process is scheduled to commence in January 2024.

The collaboration between TeamLease EdTech, IIT Patna, and NSDC is designed to support the development of a distinctive higher education format. This format emphasizes not only high-quality formal education but also builds a strong focus on skill development for improved employer connectivity.

Moreover, these work-linked hybrid degree programs aim to offer learners the opportunity to acquire an IIT degree along with an experience certificate from the employer.

The enrollment process is set to be streamlined through an integrated technology platform, allowing students across the country to easily register for these programs. Here, even current graduating students can also enroll in these programs to earn dual degrees.

The NSDC with its focus on promoting the development of a large and high-quality vocational training ecosystem in India might play a pivotal role in this initiative. The organization has been instrumental in enabling international workforce mobility through strategic engagements with foreign governments, dedicated training programs, and inclusive digital and on-ground initiatives.

This collaborative effort signifies a paradigm shift in higher education by offering students a unique blend of academic excellence and practical skills which will ultimately enhance their employability in a competitive job market.