Shift Towards More Skill-centric Curriculum Is Crucial: Siddharth Chaturvedi, Scope Global Skills University

What goes into the making of a dynamic higher education institute?  

A dynamic higher education institute places emphasis on a clear mission and vision, guided by effective leadership and supported by a dedicated faculty and staff. It excels in academic rigour, offering a diverse range of regularly updated programmes to align with industry demands and emerging fields. The institute also prioritises apprenticeship programmes, providing students with hands-on skills and real-world experience. It fosters an inclusive and vibrant campus culture, encouraging critical thinking, creativity and collaboration among students. Additionally, the institute invests in cutting-edge technologies and innovative teaching methods to provide an engaging and adaptable learning environment. It maintains strong ties with industry partners and the broader community, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the workforce. Higher education in India has always had a traditional system of imparting only theoretical learning in classrooms. At Scope Global Skills University, we believe a degree can earn a job, but it cannot help to grow further without skilling.  

How is your university investing in skilling so that students are well equipped for industry 5.0?  

At Scope Global Skills University we have programmes that cater to what is foreseen as the need of the future. This span various faculties, including computer science and software engineering, electronics and telecommunication engineering, mechanical, electrical engineering, automotive studies, computing and future skills, animation, multimedia, gaming and visual effects, information technology, management skills, tourism and hospitality, logistics, banking, finance and commerce, performing arts, international languages, agriculture, social sciences.  

Scope Global Skills University (SGSU) has also partnered with International Universities like, German Varsity (Germany), Steinbeis University (Germany), Indo Euro Synchronisation, Aivancity University (France) to offer courses in new-age courses on Automation, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, International management, Game design etc. 

Drawing from your own experience over the years, what are the strengths of Indian education and what are the areas where improvement is needed?  

The Indian education system excels in producing a vast talent pool, especially in STEM fields, contributing to a skilled workforce nationally and internationally. However, there is a need to align education with practical skills and offer more inclusive opportunities, particularly in underserved regions. Priorities include ensuring equitable access to quality education, adopting a skill-centric curriculum, embracing technology for accessibility, and fostering critical thinking and creativity. A comprehensive education encompassing arts, humanities and sports is crucial. Additionally, nurturing a culture of research and innovation is essential for staying globally competitive and advancing knowledge boundaries.

How are you taking forward the multi-disciplinarity, as envisaged by the NEP?   

Embracing the New Education Policy (NEP) holds the key to providing practical, vocation-oriented education. This approach not only facilitates a deeper understanding of regional languages for educators but also allows for the introduction of critical fields like healthcare and humanities. It's crucial to expand the concept of literacy beyond conventional academics, encompassing technical, vocational, transferable and digital skills essential for employment and livelihood. AISECT remains committed to advancing skill development and vocational training and SGSU is a testament to it. In a significant step towards promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, Scope Global Skills University (SGSU) becomes central India’s First NEP and NSQF Aligned Skills University, in Bhopal. With a core focus on enhancing employability and fostering entrepreneurial skills among the youth, SGSU is committed to providing industry-aligned academic programmes, enriched with work-integrated learning and incubation support. 

With technology having made deep inroads in education, what is the role of faculty in higher education institutes?  

In the age of advanced technology, the role of faculty in higher education institutes is more critical than ever. While technology can facilitate learning, it cannot replace the nuanced guidance, mentorship and expertise that dedicated faculty members provide. Faculty play a pivotal role in curating and creating course content, ensuring it remains relevant, engaging and aligned with industry standards. They also facilitate interactive and critical thinking-driven discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Moreover, faculty members serve as mentors, offering personalised guidance and nurturing the holistic development of students, including soft skills, ethics and professional conduct. Their expertise and experience are invaluable in cultivating a culture of research, innovation and intellectual curiosity. Additionally, faculty act as role models, inspiring students to pursue lifelong learning and contribute meaningfully to their respective fields. In essence, the faculty is the bedrock upon which a dynamic and transformative higher education experience is built, synergising with technology to create an enriched learning environment.

Meha Mathur

BW Reporters The author works as Senior Associate Editor with BW Businessworld