St Joseph University, Chumoukedima, in collaboration with the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and NETRA Foundation, conducted the “SJU Conference 2024 on Skill Development and Internship” at its campus on September 9.
The conference featured Er Alongse Sangtam, Joint Director, and Menguzelie Suhu, Assistant Project Officer from the Directorate of Employment, Skill Development, and Entrepreneurship, Government of Nagaland, as key resource persons.
The conference aimed to provide a platform for discussing and exchanging ideas on the implementation and challenges of skill development and internships under the NEP 2020 framework.
Participants were divided into groups to explore effective approaches to skill development and internship implementation. Discussions focused on addressing skill gaps, expanding internship opportunities, and bridging the gap between academic learning and industry requirements.
Group presentations highlighted various skill development and internship programs undertaken by institutions to enhance student employability and growth. Challenges faced included structural constraints, limited industry connections, socio-economic factors, a shortage of internship-providing agencies, financial limitations, and time constraints of skill and internship programs.
A question-and-answer session with the resource persons allowed for further discussion. The experts shared valuable insights into government projects aimed at promoting skill development and enhancing youth employability. They emphasized the importance of adopting a growth mindset in a rapidly changing world and encouraged educational institutions to collaborate in establishing skill development centers. Such centers would ensure that courses remain relevant, industry-aligned, and accessible to a diverse range of learners.
Attendees included heads of institutions and members from skill development departments across various colleges such as St. John College, Unity College, C-Edge College, Dimapur Government College, Mount Mary College, Modern College, City College of Arts and Commerce, and Eastern Christian College.
Also present were the Heads of Departments of Botany, Chemistry, Social Work, Psychology, and Counseling from St. Joseph University.
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