The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) has signed Memorandum of Understanding with Tata Motors Limited (TML).
Highlights:
- This collaborative agreement, aims to jointly facilitate skill-linked education and employment opportunities for tribal students completing their Grade 12th from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), specifically through their enrollment in the prestigious Tata Motors Kaushalya Program.
- This five-year MoU, effective from the date of signing, underscores a shared commitment to improving the quality of life for socially disadvantaged communities.
- It aligns with national development goals and the Sustainable Development Goals by focusing on employability and education, providing a structured pathway for tribal youth to integrate into the skilled workforce.
It is expected to benefit over 50,000 Class XII students enrolled in EMRSs across 28 states and 8 union territories.
Strategic Objectives of the Partnership:
The core purpose of this collaborative relationship is to further the common interests of both organizations in livelihood generation. The project is specifically designed to:
- Jointly facilitate skill-linked education and employment pathways for tribal students who have completed Grade 12 from EMRS.
- Enable the enrollment of these students into the comprehensive Tata Motors Kaushalya Program.
Key Aspects of Collaboration:
- Students will be selected based on specific criteria: they must be aged 18-23, have a minimum of 60% marks in their SSC (10th standard) exams, and be completing their 12th standard from an EMRS.
- The program offers a structured “Earn & Learn” model, combining a Diploma in Engineering with weekly university/institution-led classes, On-the-Job Training (OJT) aligned with NSQF, and regular semester exams and assessments as per university guidelines.
- Disbursing monthly stipends as per applicable laws, providing subsidized canteen and transport services, uniforms, PPE, and covering students under insurance (Mediclaim up, Personal Accident Insurance as per Workmen Compensation).
- To provide opportunity to high performing students to pursue self-funded or sponsored higher education such as B. Tech through partnerships (e.g., BITS Pilani WILP).
- Placement assistance upon program completion, adhering to a “One Trainee, One Job” policywith opportunities at TML’s manufacturing and service locations across India.
- A Joint Review Committee, comprising members from both TML and NESTS, will oversee the program’s progress.
This collaboration marks a significant step towards empowering tribal youth by providing them with industry-relevant skills and direct pathways to employment. It is anticipated to create a positive ripple effect, fostering economic independence and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of tribal communities across the nation.
