Initiatives in skill upgrading: the case of centres of excellence (COE) in industrial training institutes (ITI) in Karnataka, India

Abstract

This paper attempts to describe the findings of a study carried out to assess the effectiveness and challenges encountered with regard to implementation of an initiative in skill upgrading programmes, namely COE established within selected ITIs in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is noted that while COE is a unique attempt to impart specialized vocational skills with a carefully designed course content to ensure theoretical as well as practical learning experience for the students the programme suffers from lack of promoting the course among prospective students and parents, leading to poor visibility and low demand. Further, COEs lack adequate teaching staff due to delays in filling up of sanctioned positions. This has resulted in a good amount of work pressure on the part of teachers leading to poor teaching quality. Compounding this, the poor student quality due to their poor and socially disadvantaged background and hailing from remote rural areas has been predisposing factors for the learning demands for this course especially due to poor knowledge of English, and quantitative skills. The job prospects and prompt placement of students critically depended upon concerted efforts in promoting the course, vibrant network of collaborating agencies including local industry players, proactive role played by Institutional Management Committees (IMCs) set up for each COE. Low intake of girls against sanctioned seats and the drop out and lower pass rates also show a poor profile of girl students.