AICTE Launches Distinguished Professional Scheme to Foster Employability

In a bid to enhance the employability of students and members of AICTE-approved institutions, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) unveiled the Distinguished Professional Scheme (DPS) on April 23, 2024. This initiative, inaugurated by AICTE Chairman Professor T.G. Sitharam, aims to inspire and empower individuals by creating opportunities for interaction with industry experts and professionals.

Key Details:

1. Objective: The DPS seeks to establish a pool of industry experts and professionals who can guide and motivate students in overcoming challenges in the job market. By leveraging the expertise of distinguished professionals, the scheme aims to enhance students’ employability and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
2. Eligibility and Duration: Interested professionals who have made significant contributions to society in technical or professional domains are eligible to register for the scheme. The scheme has a duration of three years or until the age of 75 for registered professionals.
3. Session Structure: Professionals participating in the DPS will conduct full-day sessions with students and members of AICTE-approved institutions. They will receive an honorarium of Rs. 15,000 per session. The scheme allows for a maximum of 12 sessions annually, with a requirement for at least three sessions to be conducted in rural areas.
4. Registration and Feedback: Registration for the DPS can be done through a dedicated portal throughout the year. Host institutions can request specific professionals from the approved panel on the AICTE DPS portal. After each session, professionals are required to submit feedback reports in a specified format to ensure accountability and effectiveness of the scheme.

Objectives and Impact:

1. Enhancing Employability: The primary goal of the DPS is to enhance students’ employability by providing them with insights and guidance from experienced professionals. Through lectures, seminars, and interactive sessions, students will have the opportunity to gain practical knowledge and skills that are essential for success in the job market.
2. Promoting Industry-Academia Collaboration: By bringing together experts from various sectors, the DPS aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry. This collaboration will not only enrich the educational experience of students but also facilitate research, innovation, and entrepreneurship initiatives.
3. Fostering the Indian Knowledge System: The DPS seeks to promote the Indian Knowledge System (IKES) by harnessing the expertise of professionals who have contributed significantly to society. By sharing their experiences and insights, these professionals will inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators, thereby contributing to the growth and development of the nation.

Conclusion: The launch of the AICTE’s Distinguished Professional Scheme marks a significant step towards enriching the educational experience of students and members of AICTE-approved institutions. By providing access to distinguished professionals across various fields, the scheme aims to empower individuals with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration needed to thrive in the dynamic world of work. As the DPS unfolds, it is poised to make a meaningful impact on the employability and future prospects of students across the country.