6th July 2024, Kathmandu
In a bid to promote the concept of ‘learning by earning’, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, and the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at skill enhancement and apprenticeship for students of the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (#CTEVT).
CTEVT Students in MoEWRI Projects
The MoU, signed by Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Shakti Bahadur Basnet and Minister for Education, Science and Technology Sumana Shrestha, is expected to ensure that CTEVT students gain hands-on skills through workplace learning.
Under this agreement, CTEVT students will be hired for projects under the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, utilizing an apprenticeship model.
This initiative aims to provide practical training from industry experts while allowing students to earn an income, thereby improving their practical skills and increasing employment opportunities.
Hands-On Training for CTEVT Students
This MoU marks a significant step towards bridging the gap between academia and industry. By participating in workplace-based skill training on project sites related to energy, water resources, and irrigation, CTEVT students will have the opportunity to develop valuable hands-on skills.
The apprenticeship model ensures that students receive practical training from industry experts, which is anticipated to significantly enhance their practical abilities and job prospects.
Ministerial Support and Vision
During the signing ceremony, Hon. Shakti Basnet emphasized the importance of creating a culture of skill and labor, highlighting the need for such collaborations to enhance the employability of Nepali youth.
Hon. Sumana Shrestha underscored the importance of aligning education with labor market demands, stating, “Our education system must equip students with the skills demanded by the labor market.
The sixteenth plan advocates for a 70-30 ratio, with 70% technical education and 30% general education. We can only retain our youth in the country by providing them with employment opportunities.”
Implementing the MoU
Kulman Ghising, Executive Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority, expressed optimism about the agreement, noting that its implementation would expand best practices.
The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation will provide necessary project details to the Ministry of Education, Science & Technology to develop relevant curricula.
Financial resources required for the training programs will also be facilitated by the Ministry of Energy, ensuring seamless operation and support.
The Ministry of Education will be responsible for developing, modifying, and updating workplace-based curricula to meet the requirements of the energy projects.
CTEVT Students in MoEWRI Projects
They will also establish criteria for examinations, skill testing, certification, and selection processes for the apprenticeship programs.
This bilateral MoU is a crucial milestone in fostering collaboration between academia and industry. It aims to provide technical and vocational skills to Nepali youth, significantly contributing to the country’s economic and social development.
The active involvement of CTEVT students in energy projects is expected to enhance their practical skills and improve their employability prospects.
The presence of key officials from both ministries during the signing ceremony underscores the commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of this initiative.