Context:
The State of Karnataka, India, is a pioneer of Indian industrialization having established industry-friendly policies and created a business climate and infrastructure that are conducive to the growth of successful industries. The availability of a skilled and competent workforce is a major factor in the growth and development of industry and the economy. However, the formal education and training system are unable to keep pace with the ever-increasing demand for skilled people trained in the latest technology. Realizing this crucial aspect, Department of Employment and Training (DET) Government of Karnataka has prepared an action plan designed to empower people through improved skills and training. It intends to provide employment opportunities to about one million people in the next 5 years.
The Government of Karnataka thus entrusted GIZ International Services (GIZ InS) in India the task of setting up five international standard multi-skills development centers (MSDCs) in Bangalore, Kalaburagi, Belgaum, Mangalore and Hubballi. GIZ InS assists the Government of Karnataka in their endeavor to provide a competent and skilled workforce to the dynamic industrial sector. The objective is to showcase a model of a sustainable training centre which can be replicated by the private sector in large numbers. Moreover, the problem of skill shortages in advanced technology areas is hereby addressed.
Objective:
Multi Skills Development Model Centres are established in Bengaluru, Kalaburagi Belgaum, Mangalore and Hubli as centres of international excellence, offering advance technology training courses sustainably to benefit people and industry in Karnataka.
About the Project:
Five Karnataka-German Multi Skill Development Centers (KGMSDCs), are established in the State of Karnataka. There will be an array of long and short duration courses in advanced areas of technology such as Automation, Advanced Welding, Electronics maintenance, Computer Networking, Electrical and Energy Management, Automotive, Construction technology, Environmental Engineering. An autonomous society is registered by the Government of Karnataka (GoK) for the operational autonomy of MSDCs. GIZ InS will hand hold each MSDC and provide expert support in building capacities and systems. At full capacity the residential campuses of MSDCs will provide training to about 4000 students every year. Presently the centers are operating in make shift arrangements and soon Bangalore and Kalaburagi centers will start operations from the new buildings.
The main features of the MSDC project are:
• world class advanced technology training institutes, which are set up according to German standards, systems and technological competence;
• high-tech-oriented technical training in combination with technical services, incubation, blended learning and consultancy;
• fixed long term (1-3 years duration) courses and flexible market-driven short-term courses in the domain of modern technology as complementary measures;
• strong interface with the industry to secure relevant employment for the trainees;
• each MSDC supports development and upgradation of other vocational training institutes for enhanced outreach and impact;
• integrated concern for the disadvantaged groups and female trainees;
• stand-alone solution (not attempting reform of formal training system, but a showcase success story for other agencies to replicate in the state).
Approach: As part of the action plan, DET Government of Karnataka has embarked on the scheme of setting up Multi Skills Development Centres across the state to provide need-based multidisciplinary training programs that will develop specialized skills in line with the requirements of industry across the state. From an economic, financial and operational point of view it is desired that MSDCs have sufficient operational autonomy, and the government will take the role of provider and facilitator.
Impact/Results
• Establishment of five international standard skills training centers in Bangalore, Gulbarga, Mangalore, Belgaum and Hubballi;
• Made high-quality skilled workforce available relevant to current and emerging labour market needs;
• International and industry recognized certifications ensuring that qualifications reflect market needs and workplace requirements;
• Acting as a 'Hub" for competency development of ITI/ITC trainers in the region;
• Close and active linkages with the industries in all aspects;
• Regional centre of excellence showcasing advanced technology for the updating training of students from other VTCs;
• Promoting entrepreneurship skills and relevance of courses through training-cum-production centers;
• International certification of training in employable skills is in place;
• Network of industry, private sector organizations, Departments of Government, Public sector undertakings and other employers established enabling the training of youth to operate in the desired direction with newer opportunities of better employment coming their way.
• Reached financial self-sustenance in four years’ time.