Encouraged by the victory of NDA led by BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi who is known for his pro-industry image, several industrial houses have come forward to extend their employable skills initiatives to the Delhi Government.
This is being seen as a positive development by the Delhi Government officials who have been struggling to bring the Information Technology Institutes and polytechnics on par with industry needs. Technical training and diploma being provided by 36 institutions run by the Delhi Government across the city are outdated and needs complete overhauling of the curriculum. Besides, these institutions are being run abysmally for want of better infrastructure.
“There is a disconnect between what the industry demands and what we are training. Our students are still working on antiquated equipment. When they go out in the market, they are not able to cope with the latest machines and technology. There has to be increased industry-interface,” said a senior official.
“For instance, training on refrigeration and air conditioning is still being provided on outdated refrigerators, which are no longer available in the market. The market is flooded with new models of refrigerators and air conditioners with advanced technology but training is being imparted on antiquated machinery. Similarly, motor mechanical training is being given on Ambassador cars. This despite every year, 8-10 new models of cars are being rolled out,” said an official on condition of anonymity.
The inspection report carried by the Principal Secretary (Higher and Technical Education) pointed out dismal conditions of these institutions. “Besides manpower crunch, there is lack of basic infrastructure. laboratories are in a sorry state,” the report said. According to sources, industrial players will be part of the management and will help upgrade skill training being provided by these institutions.
Besides, the department has also started preparing a list of all buildings of ITI and polytechnics that require repair and renovation at the level of Public Works Department (PWD). The department is also chalking out the requirements in terms of equipment and replaces the old ones with upgraded models.