Punjab Government Introduces Dual Certification for ITI Students

The Punjab government has launched a groundbreaking initiative for students in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), allowing them to earn dual certifications. Under this new policy, students will receive both a technical training diploma and a 10th or 12th-grade certificate, enhancing their educational prospects. This initiative is part of the new education policy and will be implemented this academic session. The Punjab Technical Education Department has partnered with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) to facilitate this program. Students will only need to pass a couple of exams to obtain their certificates. Additionally, the initiative includes the establishment of Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence labs to improve technical education. Insurance coverage for ITI students is also in the works, ensuring their safety during training.

By Ambika Singh Sep 20, 2025, 10:32 IST

New Initiative for ITI Students in Punjab

The Punjab government has announced a significant initiative aimed at benefiting students enrolled in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). Under this new policy, students will now receive dual certifications: a technical training diploma from ITIs along with a 10th or 12th-grade certificate. This initiative aligns with the new education policy and is set to commence this academic session.

Let's explore how this initiative will benefit young individuals in Punjab and the examination requirements involved.

Collaboration with NIOS

The Punjab Technical Education Department has established a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). The MoU has been dispatched to NIOS, and comprehensive guidelines will be released shortly to facilitate the implementation of this scheme.

Eligibility and Examination Process

Students who enroll in a two-year ITI program after completing 8th grade will only need to pass two exams: one in a language and another in a chosen subject. Successfully passing these will grant them both an ITI certificate and a 10th-grade certificate. Likewise, those pursuing ITI after 10th grade will also be eligible for a 12th-grade certificate.

Importance of Dual Certification

Having an educational certificate alongside the ITI certificate is crucial for students. This dual certification is essential for gaining admission into polytechnic courses, technical diplomas, or undergraduate programs. A similar agreement has already been established between the Directorate General of Technical Education (DGT) and NIOS under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Availability Across ITIs

This dual certification initiative will be available in 137 ITIs across Punjab, offering around 52,000 seats. Last year, the enrollment rate in ITIs reached an impressive 93%. In response, the Technical Education Department is actively working to introduce new trades and technical education courses in schools.

Enhancements in Technical Education

To further enhance technical education, the department plans to establish a Virtual Reality (VR) lab in each district. Additionally, Artificial Intelligence (AI) labs are being set up in six ITIs, providing students with hands-on experience. The VR lab will allow students to practice complex and hazardous tasks safely, while the AI lab will familiarize them with cutting-edge technology.

Proposed Insurance Coverage

The department is also considering implementing insurance coverage for ITI students, which will be rolled out soon. This initiative aims to ensure the safety of students while they pursue their education.