UGC launches training programme to enhance skills of non-teaching staff in Central Universities

NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched a training programme in collaboration with the Capacity Building Commission (CBC) to enhance the skills of non-teaching staff across all 45 Central Universities in India. The initiative targets the training of at least 5000 employees from all Central Universities in the first phase.

Under the Government of India's Capacity Building Commission (CBC), operating within the 'Mission Karmayogi' framework, the initiative aims to standardise and coordinate civil services nationwide. By focusing on improving employees' skills, knowledge, and abilities, the program ensures that civil servants are equipped to deliver high-quality public services in today's dynamic environment.

Recognising the significance of capacity building in the higher education sector, the UGC conducted assessments in 2023 to identify specific competency needs among its employees. These assessments categorised needs into behavioral, functional, and domain competencies, leading to the design of tailored training programmes to address competency gaps effectively.

Since October 2023, over 635 UGC employees have completed approximately 5,480 courses on the Integrated Government Online Training (iGoT) Karmayogi platform. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including emerging technologies, data-driven decision-making, yoga, and communication skills.

Building on its success, the UGC has expanded the programme to benefit non-teaching staff in Central Universities. The training aims to enhance skills in understanding psychology in workflow, utilising technology, navigating the higher education ecosystem, managing academics, handling establishment matters, finance management, and project management.

Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, UGC Chairman said, "As part of this capacity-building exercise, the UGC aims to provide thorough training to non-teaching staff in Central Universities to improve their skills and abilities. The training covers topics such as understanding psychology in workflow, utilising technology in workflow, grasping the higher education ecosystem, managing academics, handling establishment matters, managing finances, and project management.

"The UGC has requested non-teaching staff members in Central Universities to finish courses in the above areas available on the iGOT Mission Karmayogi platform within four months. Employees of the Central Universities will also get certificates after completing the courses, " he added.