Kerala University Plans Paid Apprenticeships With ₹12,300 Stipend

Kerala University plans six-month paid apprenticeships for FYUGP students, with monthly stipends of up to ₹12,300. The initiative awaits Academic Council approval, with application and implementation details to follow.

The University of Kerala is preparing to introduce six-month paid apprenticeship opportunities for students enrolled in its Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP), aiming to strengthen practical skills and improve graduate employability. The initiative will initially focus on eligible students in university departments, with the possibility of extending it to affiliated colleges in a later phase.

The programme is linked to the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) and will be implemented in collaboration with the Board of Apprenticeship Training (Southern Region), under the Union Ministry of Education. The proposed apprenticeships will give students opportunities to gain workplace experience and apply their academic knowledge in professional settings.

Also read: University of Chicago Launches AI Master’s Programme for 2027

Under the proposed arrangement, students pursuing bachelor's degrees, including BTech programmes, will receive a monthly stipend of ₹12,300 during their apprenticeship. Diploma holders will be eligible for ₹10,900 per month, while students with vocational degrees will receive ₹9,600 per month.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to integrate practical training into undergraduate education. By connecting academic learning with workplace requirements, the programme aims to help students develop professional capabilities before completing their degrees. It is also expected to improve their preparedness for employment across relevant sectors.

Kerala Higher Education Minister Roji M. John has announced a wider Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP) for final-semester students in arts, science and commerce. The state-level initiative, aligned with the Board of Apprenticeship Training, is intended to provide six months of on-the job training and strengthen employment prospects for graduates.

The University of Kerala's apprenticeship initiative remains subject to approval from its Academic Council and completion of the necessary formalities. Details regarding eligible departments, placement arrangements, application procedures and the final implementation schedule are expected to be announced after the required approvals.

Eligible students should monitor official university announcements for updates rather than assume that applications are already open. The university is expected to provide further information once the programme's operational framework is finalised.

Also read: What Makes Great Leaders: Insights from Neuroscience

The apprenticeship initiative reflects the growing emphasis on experiential learning within higher education. Structured workplace training can help students develop practical knowledge, professional skills and a better understanding of industry expectations.

By expanding access to paid apprenticeships, Kerala aims to strengthen the connection between undergraduate education and employment. The programme could also provide a pathway for institutions to build stronger relationships with employers and improve students' transition from higher education to the workforce.