The A-Z of Creating a Vocational Training Program in India
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As Bill Beattie said, "The aim of education should be to teach us rather how to think, than what to think—rather to improve our minds, so as to enable us to think for ourselves, than to load the memory with thoughts of other men."
Getting knowledge isn't just about cramming the texts and scoring; it is much bigger than that. In today’s world it is all about acquiring skills, the numbers on one’s marksheet doesn't guarantee if any person is truly skilled or not.
Having similar thoughts? Then you are at the very right place as we are here to give you the only right roadmap you require if you are planning to create a vocational training program in the market.
In this blog, we will cover the following topics to get you started:
Introduction
Vocational training programs are the genuine need of this hour in our country. Schools may help with white-collar skills but what industry jobs require is a technical education. Vocational programs can help with inculcating such skills. They are especially helpful for the ones who don't find their interest in the traditional method of education, by providing a hands-on learning experience which can be directly applied to real life scenarios. Such programs tend to reduce the problem of unemployment by producing skilled manpower which can immediately meet the industry needs without any delay. At times the trainees even start their own business and tend to become job producers. Such programs are a great blessing for the underprivileged, acting as a guiding light to lead them out of adversity, giving them equal opportunity to acquire a skill and earn bread for their family. Hence vocational programs also help in economic growth.
India's National Skill Development Mission which aims to train millions of people in various skills by 2025 can serve like a cherry on top in your entire plan of creating vocational training programs. You create technically skilled workers which will be in high demand as India embraces ‘Industry 4.0’. Thus starting a vocational training institute is a commendable initiative, aligning with the current demand for skilled workers and addressing future needs for a sustainable workforce.
The vocational programs are never industry-centric, the people are trained for the skills needed in their desired industry. The technology and IT sector needs skilled programmers, data analysts; the healthcare sector is looking for trained professionals, pharmacy technicians; high end restaurants demand high-quality chefs; the marketing sector needs people in huge amount; skilled manpower has its great importance in construction and manufacturing like carpentry, electricians, plumbing, welding and many more. Think of a skill required and it is already a part of a vocational training program.
Outside India, the Middle East countries are also in need of skilled workers in various industrial sectors. The Middle East region's employment rate has been steadily growing, particularly in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where economic diversification initiatives are creating new job opportunities. Employment growth rates across the GCC countries were projected to average around 3-4% annually from 2021 to 2025, according to various reports. The Middle East has a significant youth population, with around 60% of the population under the age of 30 in some countries. This demographic trend highlights the critical importance of vocational training programs in providing young people with the practical skills needed for successful careers.
Through this platform, we aim to guide you in your journey and lead you towards the path of success by providing you with all the information. Don't miss out on any of aspect:
Program needs and designing: We will start by helping you decide what all programs you should keep in your institution according to their current as well as future demand and importance.
Funds and license: We will help you take note of all the licenses and other regulations that need to be kept in mind so as to have a solid legal foundation. We also hope to provide you with all the ways good funding can be generated from government policies.
Infrastructure and facilities: From helping you choose the best location to making sure your institution lacks no facilities in terms of providing any sort of practical knowledge, we got it all covered.
Monitoring and evaluation: We will provide you with the best strategies on how to monitor the proper working of the place and evaluate further on what new changes are to be done for the betterment of the students.
Future-proofing: Finally, once your institution is all set up and working, we will make sure you stay updated with all the demands of industry and accordingly develop the curriculum.
Our goal here is to provide you all the information that will help you be one step ahead of all the people who are looking forward to creating vocational training programs. So without wasting any further time,? let’s dive straight into the journey of giving society a fruitful workforce.
SECTION 1: Planning
As Dwight D. Eisenhower said,”Plans are nothing; planning is everything." It is very important to plan and consider all the basic yet important aspects while setting up a vocational training program. Now it is very well known as to why vocational programs are important and how such programs will be the need of the hour in the near future. Thus a proper plan is what is needed, it is the basic building block of the entire roadmap in this journey, as mentioned below.
The art of standing out in the market is to understand deeply how the market works and what it actually demands. The ones who understand this basic fundamental become unbeatable. Go out and conduct surveys, interview real world people who are themselves working in that field. Reach out to the industry experts, local employers and understand their psyche, what skills they expect from an employee, basically gather all the information about the current and future demand of the skills.
??????2.? ? Designing the program to be offered
After conducting the market research, decide on which all programs that are in market? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? demand will be offered in your center. To ensure a well-designed curriculum, discuss with the industry experts themselves so that your courses will not contain unwanted content which will only lead to disinterest and wastage of time. Decide on the duration of courses and the type of courses: whether they will be part-time, full-time, online or hybrid. Remember, even if a person is skilled, soft skills are still the most important to be acquired for the overall development and be unbeatable.
??????3. Legal and regulatory compliance
When the intentions behind the initiative are positive then there must not be any compromise in taking any permissions or licenses legally. Any small mistake in this can lead to a huge hurdle in the entire process, leading to unwanted delay. The type and scale of your vocational training program will dictate the range of permissions and licenses you must secure from various authorities. Here are the essential permissions you may require:-
The National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) was established by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Government of India. It serves as the primary national authority for establishing standards and crafting comprehensive regulations within the vocational education, training, and skilling ecosystem. For recognition of your institution, it is necessary that you apply for accreditation from NCVET.
You might also have to take permission from the State Skill Development Mission (SSDM) to operate the vocational training program. A quick tip: consider taking ISO certifications, so as to increase the credibility of your program and make it trustworthy in the eye of the public.
It is very important to acquire industry specific licenses. This ensures that your program is up to the industry standards and doesn't compromise in terms of any safety measures.
If you are opting for IT-related training then you have to look through the regulations laid by National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM). Certifications from the Automotive Skill Development Council (ASDC) are required for training programs in automotive technology. Recognition from bodies like the Construction Skill Development Council of India (CSDCI) are required for construction and engineering-related training while approval from relevant councils such as the Nursing Council or Medical Council for healthcare training programs are needed.
For creating a vocational training program, it is necessary to get the land use and building permits for ensuring that the work is being done legally and none of the safety measures are being compromised. You must make sure that you know about the location and its zoning well; information about the same should be available online. Prepare all the necessary documentation required and submit it to your area’s concerned authority. After the permits, follow the approved construction plans only. Once completed obtain a final certificate of occupancy confirming the land’s use.
Tax and financial permits are necessary for operating any business. Such permits establish the fact that the business is legal and working within the financial frameworks established by the government. They also help in future when one wants to apply for government grants, subsidies or other financial incentives. Even the potential investors and lenders often require proof of financial compliance to provide funding or investment.
Your entire institution will be run by the staff , thus it is necessary that you register for Provident Fund (PF) and Employee State Insurance (ESI) to provide social security benefits to your employees. Ensure that the employees get at least the minimum legal wage amount. Specify their work hours, pay them for working in extra hours, help maintain a safe and healthy working environment for your employee for a good output from their end. Try working with legal or HR professionals can help ensure your vocational training program remains compliant with employment regulations.
4.? Funding and budgeting
Running a very big business requires a very huge investment as well. It is not possible for everyone to invest it all alone thus you should always consider applying for government funds if you are eligible.These grants and funding opportunities are typically part of larger initiatives to promote skill development and vocational training across the country.?
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) implemented by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). This skill certification scheme aims to enable Indian youth to take industry relevant skill training which will help them in securing better livelihood. Under this program, the owners of the institution can receive funding based on the successful training and certification of candidates. NSDC aims to promote skill development by catalyzing creation of large, quality and for-profit vocational institutions. Further, the organization provides funding to build scalable and profitable vocational training initiatives. Its mandate is also to enable a support system which focuses on quality assurance, information systems and trains the trainer academies either directly or through partnerships.
One of the major pillars of NSDC’s strength are Sector Skill Councils (SSCs), which play a vital role in bridging the gap between what the industry demands and what the skilling requirements ought to be. Training providers may receive grants for specific programs or projects that align with the government's focus areas. In some cases, you may receive subsidies or funding for the development of infrastructure, such as training facilities and equipment.
National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) provides financial incentives to training providers who offer apprenticeship programs. This includes sharing the cost of stipend and basic training. The government even offers special funding for training programs that target marginalized groups such as women, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD).
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SECTION 2: Implementation?????????????????????????????
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For making the program a success, it is necessary that the content delivered and knowledge provided is competent and not at all compromised. Vocational training programs are all about hands-on training and practical skill development; thus it should be ensured that all the classrooms are well-equipped with all the resources needed throughout the program duration. Certain vocational fields require specialized facilities, such as automotive repair bays, healthcare simulation labs, or culinary kitchens, to replicate real-world work environments. Facilities equipped with computers, internet access, multimedia projectors, and interactive whiteboards facilitate digital learning, online research, and instructional content delivery.To prevent any type of mishappening, make sure that each classroom is well equipped with fire alarms, first-aid measures, and emergency exits.? Well-equipped and modern facilities are the key to differentiate the program from competitors, positioning it as a preferred choice for vocational education and training.
Your programs will be able to attract the mass when you are trying to incorporate courses that can accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms. There must not be any discrimination amongst the trainee and people from all backgrounds must be welcomed to develop a new skill and give their life a better push.?
Have flexibility in the infrastructure keeping in mind the case for future expansion. The place must not seem overcrowded and suffocated. Make? sure there is always enough space to accommodate all the trainees, staff and the employees. A mind works better when it's given rest from time to time. Thus for the sanity of all the trainees and staff present, ensure there are comfortable relaxing areas like the cafeterias, restrooms and recreation areas so people can take a break to freshen up their minds and restart their work.
As William Arthur Ward said , “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires." Recruiting a good staff is a very crucial investment for the success of the program. Any institution is not recognized great because of its facilities but, mostly because of the faculty present there. The instructors with expertise in their respective fields ensure the delivery of high-quality training programs, making sure the content remains up-to-date and is perfectly aligned with current industry practices and trends. Make sure that all the recruited faculty is well versed with the technologies used in their programs and know well how to integrate the digital teaching in their program so as the students can learn in a better way, leading to the development of new innovative teaching practices. The staff must be well trained to understand the diverse needs and backgrounds of trainees and promote a student-centered approach, where individual learning styles and abilities are respected and accommodated. The staff must be trained on a priority basis about the safety protocols and emergency procedures to ensure a safe learning environment for both trainees and staff. Make sure a proper regular feedback mechanism is? enabled for the staff to receive input from trainees, peers, and supervisors, facilitating continuous improvement and professional growth.
Great staff can be recruited from educational institutions, industries, government agencies and even from NGOs. A targeted and multi-faceted approach is required to reach out to the staff. Online job portals and websites like HigherEdJobs, LinkedIn, Glassdoor,CareerBuilder and many more. Try collaborating with government agencies to get to the teachers. You can also attend career fairs, education conferences, and networking events hosted by educational institutions to connect with educators and discuss teaching opportunities.
We now come to the part where we finally putt together all the planning, right from program selection, faculty training to curriculum designing, into action. The way how the content is delivered defines it all. It involves translating the objectives and learning outcomes into engaging and effective instructional experiences.
Ensure that the curriculum design is flexible so as there is no issue in updating the content and in its delivery methods, in order to keep up-to-date with the needs of the market. Better outputs will be observed once simulations, projects, internships, and on-the-job training immerses trainees in real-world scenarios; enhancing skill acquisition and retention, are being incorporated in the delivery. Digital boards, online platforms help in promoting interactive learning experiences and expanding the access to resources, enhancing the learning experience. The best way to see the progress and the development? of? the students in any program is to implement the process of regular assessments, class quizzes and peer evaluation. Integrate industry projects, case studies, and partnerships into the curriculum delivery process so as hands-on learning opportunities are being provided.?
Motivate the students by inviting industry experts, guest lecturers and employers to participate in curriculum delivery exposes trainees to real-world insights, best practices, and industry trends. The process of learning is best delivered when it is two way; train the staff to always welcome the doubts of the trainees and make sure they never feel embarrassed for asking queries in class. It might not seem like a big deal but such issues when they exist cause a big gap in the entire learning process. At regular intervals, take feedback from the students about their suggestions on the program, staff teaching methods or any other facilities they require. Such practice will help the trainees to have the feeling of being heard and develop faith in the institution.
Market outreach is a strategic approach to engage with various stakeholders, including potential trainees, employers, industry partners, and community organizations, to promote awareness of vocational training programs and build meaningful connections. The very first basic step is to identify the target audience by understanding industry sectors, workforce demands, and employer requirements.?
Promotion is the key to expand. Use all the various available digital platforms, including social media, websites, email newsletters to reach the audience. The traditional print media like brochures, flyers, posters, and local newspapers or magazines should be used as well so as to reach to the ones who prefer print media over digital.?
Community engagement is another option as well. Try attending the job fairs, career expos, industry conferences, build connections within community organizations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and civic groups. Form partnerships with educational institutions like schools, colleges, universities, and other training providers for cross-promotion.
During the marketing outreach, make sure to add all the information like program offerings, eligibility criteria, application process, fees, and deadlines on the websites, brochures etc. be open to queries and offer free counseling sessions or keep a pre-enrollment orientation to cater the doubts of all the interested trainees. Establish a transparent admission process and make the application forms in detail to gather all the information so as the selection process becomes easier.?
Keep an orientation for the admitted trainees to make them familiar about the institution policies and procedures, course learning outcome and the support services available for the trainees. Provide them with their enrollment forms, identification cards and other needed things so as they shall begin with their studies quickly.
Make sure to regularly meet the students to see how they're doing in their classes, help with any problems they might have, and give them the support and advice they need. Keep an eye out for students who might be struggling based on how they're doing in class or if they're missing a lot of classes. When noticed, step in early to offer extra help, like tutoring or counseling, to make sure they stay on track and do well.
Furthermore, provide the trainees with tutoring, academic coaching, study skills workshops, and remedial support to help trainees succeed. Give them career advice and conduct guiding workshops for them from time to time.
SECTION 3: Monitoring and Evaluation
The systematic, continuous process of gathering, evaluating, and applying data to determine the efficiency, significance, and influence of a vocational training program is known as monitoring and evaluation, or M&E. Keep a good track of each and every program’s pace and progress, activities being conducted, student-teacher interaction and assessments being given to ensure a smooth and desired functioning of the program and get the best results from trainees.
For proper evaluation, look at whether the outcomes of the program match what the people involved want and need. Make sure to check if the program is actually doing what it's supposed to do and if it's helping people learn new things, improve their skills, or change their behavior in positive ways.? Ensure that the program is using its resources wisely and if it's giving good value for the money spent. Lastly, look at the long-term impact of the program on people, communities, and the world around us to make sure it's making a positive difference that lasts.
SECTION 4: Future-proofing
Investing in future-proofing is like planting seeds of resilience that bloom into success, no matter the changing seasons of tomorrow. In today's fast-paced world, future-proofing has become the most important thing that a person must think of so as to prepare themselves for the unforeseen future. It's like having a safety net in place, so no matter what changes or challenges come in the way, one is ready to handle them. It is a way of not just surviving but rather thriving in an ever-changing world. One must be ready to face the challenges, be it keeping up with new technologies, adapting to new strategies, catering to the market’s unexpected needs, and future-proofing helps stay one step ahead of the competitors. Following are a few of the areas where future-proofing is needed.
To stay ahead of the curve, you must keep a very careful eye in the real world and evaluate any new developments, shifts, or disruptions that could have an influence on your offered programs for vocational training. Program administrators are able to anticipate possibilities and obstacles and make appropriate preparations by using this proactive approach. You might at times be required to adjust vocational programs’ curriculum, teaching techniques, and resources to be relevant and successful in a quickly changing context by regularly monitoring the environment for changes in technology, market needs, regulatory frameworks, and societal transformations.?
For effective program governance, you require risk management and contingency planning to make sure that your efforts for vocational training can predict, reduce, and deal with potential barriers and disruptions. You must identify, evaluate, and prioritize thinking of the risks that may have an influence on your program goals and operations. Evaluating internal and external elements including budgetary limitations, governmental regulations may be part of this process. Contingency planning is creating proactive strategies and reaction mechanisms to manage hazards as soon as they are detected. This might mean developing backup plans, establishing crisis management protocols, securing funding or resources, and delineating the responsibilities of key players.
Collaboration and involvement of stakeholders are essential for the success of vocational training initiatives because they promote a feeling of shared accountability, inclusion, and ownership among all parties. With this collaborative approach you can include a wide range of stakeholders, including employers, educators, trainees, government agencies, community groups, and industry partners for program designing, implementation and its assessment procedures. Collaboration also makes it possible for programs to take advantage of the knowledge, assets, and networks of different stakeholders in order to tackle difficult problems, grab chances, and have the biggest possible impact. Ultimately, vocational training programs can better address the changing demands by cooperating with one another.
Conclusion
In conclusion, developing vocational programs in India indeed requires a thorough and multifaceted strategy, right from early planning to long-term success and future-proofing. Obtaining the required permits and licenses is essential and should be done in the very early stages on priority basis. For the purpose of creating appropriate vocational programs and maximizing enrollment, it is thus crucial to comprehend the need for qualified people, particularly in industries like healthcare, technology, and construction that are experiencing expansion and will require manpower in large numbers, not only in India but across other countries as well.. Furthermore, interacting with stakeholders and working with business partners guarantee that the curriculum is in line with industry demands and offer chances for internships and career placements.?
In addition, the emphasis on education and training demands attention to infrastructure development, personnel hiring and training, and curriculum delivery. While risk management and contingency planning minimize potential interruptions, monitoring and evaluation procedures guarantee program success and point out opportunities for improvement. It is easier to adjust programs to stay current and responsive when future trends and developments, such changes in industry needs and technology improvements, are anticipated. Vocational programs in India can provide people with the information and abilities necessary to succeed in the dynamic workforce through these coordinated efforts, promoting social and economic development.
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This article was written by Sneha Tyagi and edited by Soham Roy .
Student at Harishchandra P.G.College, Varanasi
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Student at Harishchandra P.G.College, Varanasi
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