Vocational training programmes gaining popularity in Kashmir

Exemplifying the growing popularity of vocational education over academic courses in recent decades, more and more students from remote areas in Jammu and Kashmir have enrolled for short term technical courses at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Rohama in Baramulla.

The gradual increase in number of students shows the shift of inclination towards technical education among the youths over long-term non-vocational academic education.

In-charge, ITI, Rohama, Malik Maqbool said the institute offers short-term courses ranging from duration of three months to two years.

"We have eleven courses for duration of one year, two years, six and three months and these include two computer courses, draftsmanship courses, plumbing courses, dress making, typewriting and secretary courses. We also have six-month training for preparatory school management and domestic housekeeping," said Maqbool.

The short term courses that impart skilled training in various engineering and non-engineering trades have increased employment as well.

"These technical education courses increase job opportunities for us and also let us create job opportunities," said Sajid, a student of ITI.

What appears to be a revolutionary change in education system of Kashmir is the popularity of these courses among women. Courses like domestic housekeeping, school management and civil engineering top the popularity list among the female students.

Talking of the popular courses among women, a student, Rukaya Jan said the school management courses are popular as they help in procuring an easy Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree required to teach in schools.

"Civil engineering and school management is related to B.Ed training which is popular among women," she said.