Four-year degree course: Colleges will implement skill development courses

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has introduced facilities for students to undergo skill training within colleges itself as part of the four-year degree courses. Agencies like IHRD, ASAP, Keltron, and LBS can establish skill training centers in colleges. To enable this, colleges need to sign agreements with these agencies, allowing the use of their facilities like classrooms and labs. This initiative will make skill training more affordable, as the fees for such programs outside colleges are high. The government has issued an order outlining the standards for these centers.

Previously, Kerala Kaumudi reported that skill training occurred outside colleges, requiring high costs. In response, the government acted swiftly to ensure skill training centers are set up in all colleges. These centers will offer training in various fields, including computers and software, at significantly reduced fees. Currently, the fee for training outside the college, which starts from Rs 6500, is not affordable for the poor. The fee will be low in the skill centers set up in the colleges. However, students may still choose to undergo training outside colleges if needed, such as in industries.

Most colleges have structured these courses to balance teachers' workloads and maintain existing teaching positions. Skill development centers will also involve faculty members from relevant departments in providing training.

Dr. K.S. Anilkumar, Registrar of the University of Kerala, confirmed that skill training centers will be opened in all colleges.