Shimla: Samagra Shiksha has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni, Himachal Pradesh. The collaboration aims to provide practical training to school students pursuing vocational training in agriculture and allied sectors. For this purpose, Samagra Shiksha will provide around Rs. 2.8 Crores in funding to the university.
Enhancing Practical Knowledge in Agriculture
As part of the MoU, the university will provide training to 5,000 students of classes 9th to 12th who are enrolled in agriculture-based vocational courses. Moreover, an incubation center will be established at the university in addition to regular virtual training and field visits to agricultural science centers in various districts. Through this initiative, students will gain hands-on experience in horticulture, forestry, and allied fields, fostering a better understanding of sustainable practices and modern agricultural techniques.
Aiming for Future Readiness in the Sector
The agreement was signed between Rajesh Sharma, State Project Director of Samagra Shiksha, and Professor Rajeshwar Chandel, Vice Chancellor of Dr YS Parmar Horticulture and Forestry University. Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Sharma emphasized that this collaboration is part of a broader effort to prepare students for challenges in agriculture and environmental sustainability. He stated that the initiative is in line with the objective of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which focuses on improving educational quality and enhancing vocational skills.
Chandel emphasized that the collaboration is a significant step toward promoting agriculture as a dignified and viable career choice. He noted that agriculture is often undervalued compared to professions like engineering and medicine, leading many young individuals from agricultural backgrounds to move away from the field. Meanwhile, students from other sectors, such as engineering, are increasingly exploring opportunities in agriculture. The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted that agriculture offers numerous opportunities that are often overlooked in favor of white-collar jobs, which can sometimes be low-paying and distant from home.
Bridging Education and Agricultural Training Gap
The agreement highlights the importance of bridging traditional education with practical industry exposure, especially in rural and agricultural settings. By involving schoolchildren in activities like nursery raising and basic agricultural training, the initiative is expected to build awareness and interest in agriculture-related careers.
