On 16th October 2023, a pivotal workshop titled “Workshop on Skill Integrated Curriculum for Higher Education” was organized by NAAC Bengaluru at the Institute for Social and Economic Change (ISEC), Bengaluru. The workshop brought together eminent education leaders, policymakers, and academic professionals to deliberate on strategies for integrating skill development within higher education curricula.
The event commenced with a prayer to Goddess Sarasvati and the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing knowledge and enlightenment.
Distinguished Guests and Inaugural Session
The workshop was graced by prominent figures in Indian education:
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Dr. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, IAS (Retd.), Chairperson, National Council for Vocational Education & Training (NCVET), Government of India – Chief Guest
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Dr. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe, Chairman, National Educational Technology Forum (NETF), NAAC, and NBA – Keynote Speaker
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Mr. Ganesan Kannabiran, Director, NAAC
In his keynote address, Dr. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe emphasized the importance of enhancing quality in higher education and the critical role of accreditation in driving institutional development. He stressed the need for aligning curriculum design with evolving national and global expectations.
Empowering Education Through Skill Integration
Chief Guest Dr. Kalsi delivered a compelling session on how integrating skill development into curriculum can redefine the purpose and outcome of higher education in India. He illustrated how this transformation could prepare students for:
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Gainful employment in global markets
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Entrepreneurial ventures
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Public service and development sectors
Dr. Kalsi elaborated on frameworks for designing and delivering skill-based curriculum models that not only foster employability but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the nation. His session was highly interactive and concluded with a robust Q&A session where participants engaged in thoughtful dialogue on implementation challenges and solutions.
The workshop concluded with a formal vote of thanks, marking the end of a productive day of academic exchange and vision-building.
Conclusion:
The NAAC Workshop 2023 at ISEC Bengaluru served as a powerful platform for rethinking how Indian higher education institutions can evolve through skill-oriented learning. With the combined insights of policymakers, administrators, and academic leaders, this event marked a significant step toward preparing future-ready graduates and strengthening India’s education ecosystem.