MSDE urged accelerating apprenticeship engagement by focusing on results and inclusion across all CPSs.

In the current economic landscape, apprenticeship programs have emerged as a highly effective means of providing employment to youth. Highlighting this point, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has recently called upon all Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) to significantly accelerate their engagement in apprenticeships. This initiative is crucial not only for addressing labor shortages but also for providing young people with opportunities for professional experience and skill development.

MSDE’s call primarily emphasizes two key aspects. The first is a “focus on outcomes.” This means that CPSEs must measure the quality and impact of their apprenticeship programs. Rather than merely achieving numerical targets, it is essential to ensure that apprentices are effectively improving their work practices and contributing to the enterprise’s productivity. This ensures that apprenticeship becomes a meaningful, outcome-driven process rather than a symbolic exercise.

The second, equally important call focuses on “inclusion.” MSDE has urged CPSEs to promote diversity and inclusive business practices in their apprenticeship schemes. This entails providing equal opportunities to youth from all communities, classes, and backgrounds in the selection and training processes. By adopting inclusive practices, enterprises not only promote social justice but also enrich their workplace environments with diverse perspectives.

This initiative aligns with the country’s expanding employment policy, where skill development is considered the backbone of economic growth. Given their scale and institutional structure, CPSEs can play a decisive role here. When public sector enterprises accelerate apprenticeships and adopt inclusive criteria, the impact extends deeply to the private sector, generating a positive ripple effect across the entire economy.

The apprenticeship model represents the convergence of “education and experience.” It provides youth with the opportunity to learn by working in real workplaces, while enterprises gain access to a trained and dedicated workforce. The aim of MSDE’s call is to make this mutually beneficial arrangement even more effective.

CPSEs must raise awareness in this direction to enable more youth to participate in the scheme. By adopting an outcome-focused approach and inclusive policies, these enterprises will not only achieve their institutional goals but also set an exemplary model for society. Ultimately, this call serves as an invitation for every public enterprise to enhance its social responsibility and business competence simultaneously.