Karnataka Government Emphasizes Skill-Based Technical Education to Empower Youth
In a significant move to bolster the state's educational framework, the Karnataka government is placing a strong emphasis on enhancing knowledge- and skill-based technical education across various industrial sectors. Higher Education Minister MC Sudhakar made this announcement on Friday, underscoring the administration's commitment to empowering the youth in alignment with evolving industry expectations.
Focus on Curriculum and Industry Needs
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) College in Ujire, Mangaluru, Minister Sudhakar detailed the government's strategy. He explained that efforts to expand skill-based technical education will adhere to prescribed curriculum frameworks, with a sector-wise approach that carefully considers the needs and priorities of both traditional and emerging industries. This targeted initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry requirements, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the workforce.
Progress in Higher Education Institutions
Referencing observations from NITI Aayog regarding the shortage of higher education institutions in India, Sudhakar highlighted Karnataka's achievements. He noted that national norms recommend at least 30 institutions per one lakh population. Karnataka has surpassed this benchmark, boasting more than 66 higher education institutions as required. The minister attributed this progress to the encouragement and collaboration between both private and government sectors, which has fostered a robust educational ecosystem in the state.
Women's Empowerment Through Education
Sudhakar also shed light on the positive impact of government-private partnerships in increasing the number of women pursuing higher education. He pointed out a notable rise in female graduates over the last two-and-a-half years, describing it as a reflection of a positive trend in women's empowerment. To further this cause, the Karnataka government has implemented the 'Deepika' scheme in collaboration with the Azim Premji Foundation.
Under the 'Deepika' scheme, female students who have studied up to Class 10 and first and second-year Pre-University Course (PUC) in government institutions receive an annual scholarship of Rs 30,000 for three years, starting from the last academic year. Sudhakar revealed that approximately 1.6 lakh students have registered under this initiative, praising the foundation's support in expanding educational opportunities for women and contributing to their socio-economic advancement.
Agricultural University Announcement
Presiding over the event, D Veerendra Heggade, president of SDM Educational Institutions and Dharmadhikari of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala, made an important announcement regarding the establishment of an agricultural university. He urged the graduating students to work with determination and dedication towards nation-building, emphasizing the role of education in driving societal progress and development.
This comprehensive approach by the Karnataka government underscores a holistic vision for education, combining technical skill development, institutional growth, and gender inclusivity to create a more empowered and capable youth population ready to meet the challenges of the future.
