New Delhi, Jul 30: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has urged higher education institutions across the country to deepen collaboration with industry partners in an effort to improve student employability and align academic programmes with evolving workforce requirements.
In a communication issued to universities, the commission encouraged institutions to establish stronger partnerships with companies for internships, live projects, research initiatives and skill-based certification programmes. The objective is to provide students with practical exposure alongside classroom learning.
The UGC also advised universities to regularly review their curriculum in consultation with industry experts to ensure graduates possess skills that match current market demands. Institutions have been asked to promote innovation centres, entrepreneurship cells and startup incubation facilities on campuses.
Education administrators say closer engagement with industry will help reduce the gap between academic knowledge and workplace expectations while improving placement opportunities for graduates.
The commission further recommended that universities organise career development workshops, mentorship programmes and interaction sessions with professionals from various sectors to prepare students for emerging employment trends.
The initiative supports the National Education Policy’s vision of creating a flexible, multidisciplinary and skill-oriented higher education system capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly changing economy.