Page 228 - IMDR JOURNAL 2023-24

IMDR’s Journal of Management Development & Research 2023-24

During the questionnaire, respondents were asked open-ended questions based on the following
questions.

Q9. What improvements do you suggest to better align vocational courses with industry needs?

Industries should design customized training programs and courses specifically for the roles and skills needed

within their organizations. Additionally, research and development (R&D) focused courses should be distinct

offerings. A hybrid model allowing some standard base skills along with specialized modules may also prove
effective.

Regular consultation with industry representatives can help training providers understand the most in-demand
skills and any changes on the horizon. Vocational curriculums also need flexibility to rapidly integrate new

technologies and methodologies. Incorporating significant practical training through simulations, projects, and
work placements can help students transition smoothly into the workplace. Assessing aptitudes and interests

before streamlining students can ensure programs are well-aligned to career aspirations. Broad awareness

campaigns about vocational programs can expand the talent pipeline. Overall, the aim should be to deliver
current, highly-relevant skills tightly targeted to actual roles, while allowing enough adaptability to stay ahead

of industry developments.

Q10. How can the institution enhance the practical experiences or internships offered in vocational

courses?

Institutions can enhance practical experiences and internships in vocational courses by aligning more closely
with industry. Building partnerships with companies in the field allows students access to real-world projects

and mentors (College should aligned with industry). Providing students more creative freedom in applying
their skills gives them the autonomy to shape a more meaningful experience (By giving more creative liberty

to the students). Structured mentorship programs where students are paired with industry veterans can facilitate

the transfer of practical knowledge (Provide mentorship, integrate real-world projects, and establish robust
feedback loops to enhance practical experiences in vocational courses).

Institutions should also emphasize hands-on learning through workshops, field trips, and direct industry
exposure (Workshops, project work; Institute can talk and visit industry; By providing industrial visits or a

day at corporate offices). Continuous feedback mechanisms to evaluate internship experiences from both

student and employer perspectives can enable ongoing optimization (Continuous feedback from students about
their internship life balance may be weekly or monthly; Establish mechanisms for gathering feedback from

employers, alumni, and industry stakeholders to continuously improve the relevance and effectiveness of
vocational programs).

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