SVSU expands academic portfolio with 12 new programmes
Shri Vishwakarma Skill University (SVSU), Palwal, India's first government skill university, is launching 12 new programmes for the current session, including B Pharma, D Pharma, BSc Nursing, BSc Physiotherapy, BSc Agriculture, B Voc in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, B Voc in Printing and Packaging, B Voc in Interior Design, B Voc in French Language, Bachelor of Performing Arts (Music), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and LLM.
Dual education model gains traction
Vice-Chancellor Prof Dinesh Kumar said SVSU's dual education model—theory followed by on-the-job training—is being adopted by other skill universities across India, including Assam Skill University, Telangana Skill University, and upcoming ones in Bihar, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Madhya Pradesh. The curriculum divides student time: 40% in classroom theory and 60% in industry through on-the-job training.
Industry partnerships exceed 125
The university has partnered with more than 125 industries, which are involved in curriculum design, admission processes, and training. Prof Kumar noted that the university's labs function as actual production units rather than ordinary laboratories. SVSU has also implemented Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), converting prior learning experiences into degrees and diplomas. Several batches have graduated under this system, and thousands of plumbers and tubewell operators from Haryana's Public Health Department have undergone RPL.
Placement rate at 82% with deeper metrics
Prof Kumar reported a placement rate of around 82% at SVSU. He emphasized deeper success parameters: student retention in companies, promotion speed compared to peers, and number of startups founded. In collaboration with SIDBI, a Super 30 project led to 22 students registering their own startups.
AI integration and skill requirements
Regarding AI's impact, Prof Kumar stated that AI has transformed old methods, automating repetitive tasks. He cited an estimate that one-third of skill sets will change by 2027. However, skilled people remain necessary to develop and run AI systems. SVSU has made 'AI literacy' mandatory in most programmes, teaching students to use AI tools and predictive analytics in fields like mechanical, logistics, and agriculture.
Prof Kumar highlighted a significant shortage of skilled youth in advanced manufacturing technologies such as robotics, industrial automation, mechatronics, and CNC machining. There is also a gap in certified professionals for EV technology, green energy, logistics, and data analytics. He noted that while degrees exist, young people lack practical knowledge for high-tech systems.
