‘AP forging ahead with UK collaboration in skill development’

Principal Secretary Skill Development & Training Suresh Kumar, along with APSSDC MD Raju Babu, had a detailed discussion with Gareth Wynn Owen, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, to discuss potential areas of collaboration on Thursday. The Government of Andhra Pradesh, through its Skill Development and Training Department, is making significant strides in collaborating with renowned UK-based organisations to enhance the skill sets of the State’s workforce.
The discussions centered on various proposals received by the department from UK-based entities. These proposals span a wide range of initiatives, including several organisations that have put forth plans to improve English language training and certification for healthcare professionals seeking UK employment. The British Council, Skill and Education Group, Pearson, Cambridge University, and Neath Port Talbot College Group have outlined programs for English testing alternatives, worker rights training, blended learning models, and high-success online courses. These efforts aim to better prepare and certify healthcare workers, particularly from India, for employment opportunities in the United Kingdom
The State government has taken a proactive approach in evaluating these proposals and is committed to exploring the feasibility of pilot projects in collaboration with these reputable UK-based organisations. The focus is on enhancing the English language proficiency and employability of Andhra Pradesh’s workforce, particularly in the healthcare sector, especially nurses and other high-demand sectors.
“These collaborations with UK-based entities align with our vision of creating a skilled and globally competitive workforce in Andhra Pradesh,” said Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary of Skill Development & Training, “We are excited about the prospects of these partnerships and look forward to the positive impact they will have on our State’s development.”