India : ATDC partners with NSDC to launch RPL programme

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ATDC partners with NSDC to launch RPL programme

11
May '17

Apparel Training and Design Centre (ATDC) has partnered with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to launch its first 'Recognition of Prior Learning' (RPL) programme under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 2.0, the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India. RPL was launched in Ludhiana.

RPL is a robust platform to provide recognition to the skills acquired through informal learning to get equal acceptance as the formal levels of education or skill development. It aims to recognise prior learning and bring them to the 'trained skilled workforce cadre'. RPL is a process of assessment of an individual's prior learning to give due importance to learning as an outcome on the job rather than learning as a process not necessarily directed at economic activity.

"RPL for a country like India is an absolute necessity as only about 7% -10% of the workforce has received any formal vocational training. In some section it is less than even 5%. Considering this abysmal situation prior learning through skills developed on the job being assessed and evaluate later top-up training by ATDC through 3^rd party certification is a welcome step," said Dr Darlie Koshy, ATDC DG and CEO during the launch programme of RPL.

After Ludhiana, ATDC will take up RPL in other states like Punjab, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal to cover 13,000 candidates. ATDC will be executing a twelve-hour orientation for the candidates followed by 3rd party assessment and certification. Certified candidates will get the direct benefit of Rs 500 cash in their accounts from the government’s end, as well as special kit including a T-shirt, cap and they will be covered with an insurance policy of five years (Pradhan Mantri Suraksha BimaYojana) in addition to a certificate.

"The Indian apparel industry has seen an upward surge in the demand in the past few years and the industry is showing buoyancy by way of market growth. However, the sector has still to realise much of its huge potential. Despite huge workforce, the industry is marred by relatively low productivity levels and faces tough competition in the exports market from Bangladesh and China. Hence, it is imperative to identify skill gaps in the industry and train the existing workforce under the RPL programme to enhance their productivity. In addition, the programme provides formal recognition to the people with specific abilities and gets them certified as per the industry standards. We are happy to initiate this project and are certain that it will benefit as well as motivate workers," said Jayant Krishna, COO NSDC. (RR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India

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