Join Kavita Rooj, Editor of India Education Forum, in an insightful interview with Dr.
Manpreet Singh Manna, Pro Vice Chancellor of Chandigarh University. They discuss the
transformative impact of NEP 2020, the role of industry-academia collaboration in enhancing
employability, and the evolving curriculum to prepare students for diverse career paths.
Discover how universities are adapting to the changing dynamics of education and empowering
students for success in the job market.
Overview:
This interview with Dr. Manpreet Singh Manna highlights several crucial insights about
employability, industry-academia collaboration, and the implementation of NEP 2020 in India:
Industry-Academia Collaboration:
- Dr. Manna emphasizes that without collaboration between industry and academia, any
university claiming to graduate employable students is misleading. He insists that the NEP
2020 benchmarks necessitate such partnerships to ensure relevant education.
- He mentions three roles that industry plays in academia: providing internships and
exposure, creating centers of excellence on campuses through CSR initiatives, and blending
industry-specific content with academic curricula.
Enhancing Employability:
- Industry collaboration significantly enhances employability by ensuring students gain
practical skills and experience. This helps bridge the gap between academic learning and
industry requirements.
- Through such collaborations, students engage in projects that industries monitor,
potentially leading to job placements or further development opportunities.
NEP 2020 and Curriculum Integration:
- Dr. Manna states that the NEP 2020 has brought vibrancy to educational institutions, with
a strong focus on employability and skill development.
- He stresses the importance of integrating industry-relevant skills into the curriculum,
suggesting that 40% of the content can be blended through various platforms and physical
modes.
Curriculum Development:
- Universities are encouraged to blend their curricula with industry requirements,
involving companies like IBM, TCS, and others to ensure that students are industry-ready
upon graduation.
- The role of faculty in updating their knowledge and integrating new technologies is
crucial. However, Manna acknowledges the challenges faculty face in keeping up with rapid
technological advancements.
Dr. Manpreet Singh Manna’s insights emphasize the critical need for industry-academia
collaboration to enhance employability and align education with the demands of the job
market. The implementation of NEP 2020 plays a pivotal role in driving these changes,
ensuring that curricula are integrated with industry-relevant skills. By fostering strong
partnerships with industry, universities can provide students with practical experience and
updated knowledge, preparing them for diverse career paths. This collaborative approach is
essential for empowering students and ensuring their success in an evolving job market.
