2021 GS2 Answer

Q. “‘Earn while you learn’ scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful.” Comment.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

Model Answer: 

Strengthening ‘Earn While You Learn’ for Meaningful Vocational Education

The ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme, which combines practical work experience with theoretical education, is crucial for bridging the skill gap in India’s workforce. However, to make vocational education and skill training truly meaningful, this scheme needs significant strengthening.

Current challenges hindering the scheme’s effectiveness include:
• Limited industry participation
• Lack of standardized curriculum
• Insufficient awareness among potential beneficiaries
• Inadequate infrastructure in many vocational training institutes

To strengthen the scheme and enhance its impact, the following measures are essential:

1. Increase industry-academia collaboration:
• Develop industry-relevant curricula
• Facilitate regular industry visits (e.g., factory tours, job shadowing)
• Encourage industry experts as guest lecturers

2. Standardize curriculum and assessment:
• Align with National Skills Qualifications Framework
• Implement uniform evaluation methods across institutes

3. Improve training quality:
• Upgrade infrastructure (e.g., modern labs, equipment)
• Enhance trainer skills through regular upskilling programs

4. Boost awareness and participation:
• Launch targeted outreach campaigns
• Provide incentives for both learners and employers (e.g., tax benefits, stipends)

5. Leverage technology:
• Implement online learning modules
• Use data analytics for better monitoring and evaluation

6. Ensure proper certification:
• Recognize prior learning
• Offer industry-endorsed certificates

By strengthening the ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme, we can:
• Improve youth employability
• Better align workforce skills with industry needs
• Contribute to economic growth through increased productivity
• Reduce unemployment and underemployment

Conclusion: Strengthening the ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme is crucial for creating a skilled workforce, boosting employability, and driving economic growth in India.

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