Odisha Introduces Apprenticeship-Embedded Undergraduate Degree Programme

In a significant step towards strengthening employability and industry readiness among students, the Odisha government has launched an apprenticeship-embedded undergraduate degree programme that integrates academic learning with hands-on workplace experience.

The innovative programme combines traditional classroom education with a structured, paid apprenticeship during the third year of study. The initiative is aligned with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes experiential learning, skill development and stronger links between higher education and industry.

Under the new model, students will spend the first two years pursuing academic coursework before undertaking a one-year apprenticeship with industry partners, enabling them to gain practical exposure while completing their degree. Officials believe the approach will help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace requirements, improving employment prospects for graduates.

The programme offers students flexibility in choosing their academic pathways. Learners can select from 11 disciplines and combine major and minor subjects in accordance with the multidisciplinary framework promoted under NEP 2020. The flexible curriculum is expected to allow students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals while acquiring industry-relevant skills.

Higher education experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that apprenticeship-integrated programmes are increasingly being adopted worldwide to enhance graduate employability. By providing real-world work experience before graduation, such programmes help students develop professional competencies, workplace ethics and practical problem-solving abilities that employers often seek.

The Odisha government has opened admissions through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS) portal. Interested candidates can submit their applications until June 10. According to the admission schedule, the first merit list for selected candidates will be published on June 17.

Officials say the programme represents a major shift from conventional degree structures by embedding skill-based learning directly into the academic journey. The initiative is also expected to strengthen collaboration between higher education institutions and industry partners, creating opportunities for students to gain exposure to emerging sectors and workplace practices.

As India continues to focus on enhancing youth employability and workforce readiness, Odisha's apprenticeship-embedded undergraduate programme could serve as a model for other states seeking to integrate academic education with practical training and industry engagement.