Srinagar, Jan 19 (KNO): The administration of Union Territory of Ladakh on Friday said it is prioritising skill training for college students in line with the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
About 15 skill centres have been established across various colleges in the region, Commissioner Secretary Padma Angmo, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said during a press conference.
In collaboration with the Higher Education Department, we have taken various steps to enhance technical education and skill development, Angmo said. She said the administration is focused on skill development under the NEP and aims for college students to acquire practical skills alongside their academic pursuits.
“The first batch of 689 students has completed their first semester, and 15 skill centres have been established in 4 colleges,” she informed. “We are imparting 10 different skills to students, and their positive response is evident.”
The Commissioner Secretary said that approximately 10,000 students have applied for government scholarships, and the deadline has been extended to encourage more applications.
Speaking on pension schemes, including the National Social Assistance Program (NSAP) and Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS), Padma Angmo said around 8,000 individuals benefit from NSAP, covering old age, widows and persons with disabilities. Under ISSS, over 10,000 people, including women in distress or those in need, are registered. Additionally, 900 more applications have been cleared this year, with a commitment to consider more applications in the upcoming year.
She also announced the introduction of a special marriage assistance scheme by the UT administration this year—(KNO)