NSDC International Collaborates With SASASNET

NSDC International, a completely owned subsidiary of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sub – Saharan African Skills & Apprenticeship Stakeholders Network (SASASNET) to develop the skill ecosystem across Sub-Saharan African countries.

The partnership aims to address the skill gap, promote workforce mobility and drive economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa by establishing new Sector Skill Councils and sharing best practices from NSDC International. It also focuses on skill harmonisation, quality standardisation, technological advancements and digital public infrastructure to enhance job readiness and employability skills among youth. The partnership also plans to digitalise Technical and Vocational Education and Training systems for youth access.

To streamline and expedite mobility, the partnership envisages on mapping of sector-specific skills and assessing the demand for skilled workforce across sectors to strengthen the interface between industry and academia. 

In addition, NSDC International will share the best practices and lessons learned from the development of the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) and other Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) with SASASNET for enhancing the TVET systems through digital platforms in the member countries. 

Furthermore, the delegates discussed how Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) have played a vital role in developing competency-based standards, standardised skill certification processes and fostering industry collaborations to address the demand for a skilled workforce. 

With this, the establishment of the Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) in the member countries will open pathways for youth to gain academic knowledge combining industry exposure in line with the National Skill Qualifications Framework (NSQF). 

The multifaceted approach leverages innovative technologies, establishes a robust Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework and promotes a ‘earn while you learn’ model for youth, facilitating their smooth transition from school to employment.

The collaboration focuses on strengthening the industry connection to comprehend the evolving skill requirements, emerging trends and job roles in line with equipping the youth with industry-relevant skills.