EMPOWERING THE FUTURE
Jammu and Kashmir is on the cusp of a transformative shift in its education system. The rising demand for employable graduates, rapid technological advancements and the growing recognition of the skill gap in various industries are steering the nation towards a skill-based education framework. Over the next decade, skilling is poised to redefine how education is imparted, focusing on practical, industry-relevant training rather than solely theoretical knowledge.
Jammu and Kashmir, a region with unique geopolitical and socio-economic challenges, holds immense potential for growth in higher education. The integration of skilling into higher education systems is poised to address employment gaps, foster innovation, and enhance regional development. This report explores how skilling can revolutionize higher education in Jammu and Kashmir, driving socio-economic empowerment and sustainable growth.
Current Scenario of Higher Education in Jammu and Kashmir:
- Over 150 higher education institutions, including universities, colleges and professional institutes.
- Limited emphasis on skill-based education.
- Youth unemployment rate is higher than the national average.
- Skill mismatch is a significant barrier to employment.
- Schemes like Skill India and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) are gaining importance.
- Local initiatives under the J&K Skill Mission aim to enhance employability.
Current Education System and Its Challenges
Jammu and Kashmir’s education system, while robust in terms of enrollment rates and infrastructure, faces several challenges. A significant gap exists between the skills taught in educational institutions and those demanded by industries. Despite high levels of academic qualifications, many graduates remain unemployed due to a lack of practical skills. Educational content often lags behind current industry trends, particularly in technology and digital domains. Traditional education emphasizes theoretical knowledge over hands-on learning, leaving students underprepared for real-world applications. Skilling refers to equipping individuals with specific competencies and practical expertise tailored to industry requirements. Integrating skilling into education has the potential to address existing gaps and transform the system into one that is dynamic and inclusive.
Major Drivers for Skilling
- Programs like Skill India Mission, National Education Policy 2020 (NEP) and PMKVY (Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana) emphasize skilling as a cornerstone of national progress.
- With a large young population, Jammu and Kashmir has the opportunity to become a hub for skilled professionals, provided the youth are adequately trained.
- Skill India Mission and PMKVY provide a framework for skilling across India with specific initiatives in J&K. The National Education Policy emphasizes vocational training as an integral part of education. Implementation of NEP in J&K institutions aims to merge academic and practical learning.
- Growth in IT and healthcare sectors demands a skilled workforce. Industry partnerships can help develop job-oriented curricula and offer on-the-job training.
- The region’s tourism potential necessitates skilled personnel in hospitality and tourism. Specialized skilling in language, cultural sensitivity and technology can boost the sector.
- Fostering collaborations with industries for internships, apprenticeships and curriculum design. Develop sector-specific training tailored to regional strengths and job market needs.
Anticipated amendments in the Education System by 2035
Vocational education would be an integral part of higher education with a focus on fields such as IT, healthcare, agriculture and renewable energy. Education will adopt a mix of traditional classroom teaching and online platforms offering skill-specific courses. Educational institutions will partner with industries to co-design curricula, ensuring alignment with market needs. Internship programs and apprenticeships will become mandatory components of education. Students will have the freedom to choose courses based on their career aspirations and aptitudes.
Training in AI, data science, cloud computing, blockchain, and renewable energy technologies should be prioritized to meet global workforce demands. Short-term certification programs will gain acceptance, enabling individuals to upskill and reskill continuously. In future employers will increasingly value skills over traditional degrees, emphasizing practical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
(The Author is Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Coordinator Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Govt. Degree College Pulwama. Email: [email protected])
