UGC's New Policy: Internships to Bridge the Gap Between Education and Industry

The New Internship Policy 2023, based on India Skill Report 2022, NEP 2020, curriculums, and the credit framework, is set to revolutionize the way internships are structured in India. The primary objective of the University Grants Commission (UGC) is to enhance the employability and skill set of undergraduate students through internships. Professor M. Jagdish Kumar, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, emphasized that internships provide students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom to the real world, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application.

Developing a Wide Range of Skills To navigate the ever-changing landscape, students needed a comprehensive skill set, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. UGC's internship guidelines aim to provide students with insights into technical skills during their internships. UGC aims to empower students to establish a professional network by connecting them with professionals and potential mentors.

Global Demand-Based Research, Technology, Training The new policy also integrates research internships into the internship landscape. Students will not only gain theoretical knowledge and practical training but will also be exposed to practical research in their areas of interest that could benefit society and the general public. Additionally, the UGC's internship program will encompass a wide range of sectors including business, agriculture, banking, finance, insurance, fast-moving consumer goods, tourism and hospitality, public and policy, environment, education, communication, commerce, small businesses, internet of thinking, AI, machine learning, deep learning, augmented and virtual reality, healthcare, life sciences, automotive, retail, sports and wellness, physical education, and more through a hybrid mode.

Key Points

1. 88.6% Seeking Internships: According to a UGC expert committee, based on the India Skill Report 2022, significant improvements have been made in youth employability over the past three years. In 2020, it was 45.97%, in 2021, it increased to 46.2%, and in 2022, it reached 56%. The employability rate among women stands at 51.44%. The commerce sector had the highest employability rating, at approximately 60.62%.

2. Integration of Research Internships: The new policy introduces research internships, where every student will not only gain academic knowledge and training but also engage in useful research on subjects of their preference, especially those that are favored by society and the public.

3. Local Market and Industry Involvement: Internships will also be organized through collaboration with local industries and markets.

Significant Developments

1. Centralized Digital Portal: A centralized digital portal will be established for the registration of all students. This portal will maintain records of students, ensuring that they reap the benefits of their internships when they enter the workforce.

2. Employer Access to Student Information: Employers will have direct access to students' information and performance through this portal.

3. Individual Supervision and Mentorship: Apart from educational institutions, each student will be assigned a supervisor and protector in the relevant internship field.

4. Skill-Based Evaluation: The internship will also be tied to skill-based assessments.

The new internship policy is poised to reshape the way internships are perceived and conducted in India, focusing on enhancing the practical skills and employability of students while bridging the gap between academia and industry.