(a) the progress of implementation of the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF);
(b) whether there is any system of recognition of prior learning as envisaged in NSQF;
(c) if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether the National Skill Development Agency has launched any pilot proposal on recognition of prior learning in various sectors; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
(a) The National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) is a competency based framework that organizes all qualifications according to a series of levels of knowledge, skills and aptitude. NSQF in India was notified on 27th December, 2013. Under NSQF, the learner can acquire the certification for competency needed at any level through formal, non-formal or informal learning. In that sense, the NSQF is a Quality Assurance Framework. Presently, more than 100 countries have, or are in the process of developing National Qualification Frameworks.
The NSQF is anchored at the National Skill Development Agency (NSDA) and is being implemented through the National Skills Qualifications Committee (NSQC) which comprises of all key stakeholders. A total of 1520 qualifications have been approved as NSQF aligned by National Skills Qualifications Committee (NSQC) from March 2015 to March 2016. National Skill Development Agency (NSDA) has conducted NSQF orientation workshops in 19 States. For effective implementation of NSQF, NSDA has already been initiated discussion with various Ministries.
(b) & (c) The National Policy for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, 2015 projects Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), reskilling and upskilling of 298.25 million existing workforce and skilling of 104.62 million new entrants over 2015-2022. The RPL as envisaged in NSQF is the process of recognition previous learning, often experimental, towards gaining a qualification. It is a very important associated function of the NSQF, especially in the Indian context where majority of the workforce has not received formal training. The NSQF will help individuals who have gained learning informally, such as through life, work and voluntary activities to have this learning recognized.
(d) to (e) NSDA has launched RPL pilot project in five sectors namely, Agriculture, Healthcare, Gems and Jewellery, Domestic Worker and Construction. These are being implemented through their respective Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) and non-governmental participants.