Kerala University plans 6-month paid apprenticeships for FYUGP students; stipend up to Rs 12,300

The Kerala government plans to introduce an apprenticeship programme for final-semester arts, science and commerce students to improve their practical skills and employment prospects. Roji M John, Higher Education Minister, announced the initiative according to Press Trust of India (PTI) reports.

The Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP), under the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BoAT) of the Union Ministry of Education, will be implemented in the state from the current academic year.

The proposed programme will connect classroom learning with workplace requirements. This will allow students to gain practical experience and opportunities to develop professional skills. Initially, the apprenticeship scheme is planned for students in the university’s departments. It might be extended to affiliated colleges in a later phase.

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Kerala University plans six-month paid apprenticeships

The University of Kerala has also started preparations to offer the six-month paid apprenticeship opportunities to eligible students enrolled in its Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP). The initiative will be implemented under the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) in collaboration with the Board of Apprenticeship Training (Southern Region), Ministry of Education.

The official social media account of the University of Kerala states that while under training, the bachelor's or BTech degree holders will get Rs 12,300 as a stipend; diploma students will get a monthly stipend of Rs 10,900, while vocational degree students will receive Rs 9,600. The initiative will help improve students' employability at the college level itself, Roji M John said.

However, this initiative of the University of Kerala is dependent on the approval from its Academic Council and completion of the necessary formalities. More details regarding eligibility, participating departments, apprenticeship placements and the application process are expected to be shared after the required approvals.