siliconindia | | JUNE 20268India's renewed focus on `Earn-and-Learn' models is not a nostalgic return to apprenticeships, but a structural correction in how learning connects to work. By 2026, apprenticeship-style and work-integrated programs will have moved from the margins of skills policy to the centre of India's employment strategy as education outcomes continue to fall far behind labour market needs.The movement of services away from the margins is also driven by three major forces: persistent youth unemployment, widening skill gaps and rapid industrial transformation. With industries embracing automation, digital tools and new service models, employers are discovering that classroom delivery models are no longer enough. Meanwhile, millions of educated young people are struggling to secure stable employment that corresponds to their qualifications. Have you ever thought about why so many graduates still feel `unprepared' for the workforce?"Despite modern education systems becoming more structured and outcome-driven, a key concern remains: are we truly focusing on learning or just managing it? With rising pressure on marks, jobs, and rankings, it is worth reconsidering approaches that reconnect education with real experience. This is why earn-and-learn models are making a strong comeback; bridging knowledge with practical life and work", reflects Dr Shiv Kumar Verma in a post on LinkedIn who is a Professor at Sharda University with over 27 years of experience in building high-impact higher education ecosystems across leading universities in India and international settings.This change was fast-tracked through policy changes. The reforms enacted under the National Education Policy 2020 along with changes to the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme link institutions with businesses more effectively than before. We are modernising India's Apprenticeship Ecosystem, which was set up under the 1961 Apprenticeship Act, to include digital platforms and support from government regulations regarding accreditation and stipends.Early evidence from recent training cuts is very positive. Surveys indicate that almost 75% of apprentices will find paid employment based on the skills gained from their on-the-job experience. Employers across multiple sectors including manufacturing, IT, health care, and hospitality have also noted that when apprenticeships are part of their organisational workforce strategy they are more productive and have a higher quality/reliable talent pipeline.EDITORIAL EXCLUSIVEWHY EARN-AND-LEARN MODELS ARE MAKING A COMEBACK
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