National Skill Development Corporation to Expand Training Infrastructure Nationwide"

NSDC Unveils Expansion Plan: 50 New Future Skills Centres, 10 International Academies

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) announced plans to expand its skilling initiatives in India by establishing 50 new Future Skills Centres and 10 NSDC International Academies. CEO Ved M. Tiwari outlined a strategy to offer over 300 industry-aligned programs in 12 emerging technologies, aiming to train over 2 lakh candidates and create 2.70 lakh square feet of training infrastructure to boost employability and workforce readiness.

Tiwari explained that industry-aligned programs aim to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills by aligning education with emerging technologies and industry needs. He noted that NSDC has partnered with 33 global corporations and established 21 Future Skills Centres in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Over 200 programs have been certified by corporations, covering 9 emerging technologies, training more than 27,000 candidates, and developing over 1.20 lakh square feet of training space.

Additionally, he highlighted the efforts to make education accessible to students from tier 2 and 3 colleges by collaborating with Institutes of National Importance. So far, 11 premium institutions have partnered with NSDC to launch 17 micro-credential programs, awarding over 75,000 credits and training more than 5,000 candidates. There are also plans for NSDC to collaborate with 15 premium institutions, introduce 30+ micro-credential programs, and award around 1,80,000 credits. The programs will provide specialized training in emerging technologies across sectors like aerospace, automotive, mining, and infrastructure. OEM tools and curricula will be integrated into guided pathways, supporting different proficiency levels and leading to job opportunities across various domains.

Additionally, he outlined plans to onboard 1 million students, establish MoUs with leading OEMs, engage training partners, select industry-specific tools, design career progression pathways, implement joint certifications with NSDC and OEMs, and introduce new industry verticals. Regarding international mobility, he stated that the institution is working on setting up international language labs and assessment centres to provide training in Russian, Italian, Korean, and French, enhancing global employability. He highlighted Israel’s request for 5,000 healthcare workers and shared a strategic roadmap to expand global employment and skill development opportunities.

NSDC International is extending its advisory services to GCC countries and Africa to ensure effective workforce development programs. Germany and Japan have expressed a consistent demand for healthcare workers, highlighting the need for ongoing training and deployment. Since its establishment in October 2021, NSDC International has aggregated 88,924 overseas jobs across 22 countries and deployed over 64,000 candidates to nations including the GCC, Japan, and the UK. The organization has facilitated training and job placements in 19 industries, with a focus on construction, MEP, and facility management. A total of 13,631 trainees have been trained in NSDC International Centres across India.

He also discussed how youth in remote areas are skilling and upskilling through the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH). The platform has reached 1.30 crore candidates, including 92 lakh short-term trained, 86 lakh certified, and 13 lakh apprentices. SIDH offers over 7,100 courses in 23 languages, with more than 10 lakh active users and 42,000 training centres. It collaborates with 57 digital learning partners to provide 1,245 courses. He also highlighted NSDC JobX, a job platform that connects job seekers with employers and offers services like resume building, career coaching, and job alerts. The NSDC's expansion and innovative initiatives aim to revolutionize skill development in India, enhancing employability and workforce readiness for a brighter future.

Editor’s Note:

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) is taking bold steps to expand skilling initiatives across India by setting up 50 Future Skills Centres and 10 NSDC International Academies. With over 300 industry-aligned programs in emerging technologies like AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity, NSDC aims to bridge the gap between theory and practical skills. The initiative plans to train 2 lakh candidates and create 2.70 lakh square feet of training space, supported by 33 global corporations and Future Skills Centres in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). By partnering with top institutions, NSDC makes education accessible to students from tier 2 and 3 colleges and offers micro-credential programs to enhance employability. Its focus on international mobility, through language labs and partnerships with countries like Israel, Germany, and Japan, increases global job opportunities. NSDC’s work in skill development is crucial in a fast-changing job market. These efforts empower India’s youth and provide a valuable example for other organizations to invest in workforce development. Skoobuzz appreciates NSDC's initiatives which offer hope for a brighter future where everyone has the skills and opportunities to succeed.