Coimbatore and Pune are the first among the 100 Knowledge Upgradation Centres for Skilled Human Action and Learning Action (KUSHAL) proposed by the HRD ministry.
The Centres, proposed to be in place within one year, will coordinate with the entire skill development efforts of Higher Education Institutions, H Devaraj, Vice-Chairman, UGC said, addressing the 24th Graduation Day of SNR Sons College, here.
Funded by the ministry, the guidelines on the scheme are being framed by UGC, Devaraj said.
Time has come for educational institutions to introduce skill-based courses, he said, adding a mere degree during this technology savvy era will not give jobs.
UGC has already come out with Faculty Recharge Programme, which was aimed to induct exceptional candidates, with notable record of research in international/frontier area of skill, who will spearhead internationally competitive research programme along with their teaching responsibility, he said.
UGC has also come out with three-year Bachelor of Vocational Course, with a grant of Rs two crore, Devaraj said.
Similarly it was giving funds to start a course under Community college programme, under 12th Plan, particularly to tackle the unemployment problem.
