Beyond the Syllabus: How Certifications Set you Apart

According to the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) report, approximately 1.07 crore students graduate in India each year. With more students completing their degrees annually, the job market becomes increasingly competitive. The majority of these graduates rely solely on their college curriculum, believing that a degree is the golden ticket to a secure career. But if that were the case, why do only some people land great jobs while others struggle?

The key difference lies in how well-prepared candidates are for industry demands. Many students take extra steps to upskill, gaining certifications from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning. These certifications help learners stay ahead by equipping them with practical, industry-relevant skills.

Striking the Right Balance between Degree and Certificates

While certifications enhance employability and prove better job prospects, degrees remain a vital part of the education system. Universities provide a structured learning approach, networking opportunities, and affordability at a larger scale. However, there is room for improvement in how traditional institutions adapt to changing industry needs.

To make degrees more industry-aligned, universities and colleges can:

  1. Partner with private organizations to offer industry-recognized certifications along with degrees.

  2. Collaborate with companies for real-world projects, ensuring students graduate job-ready.

  3. Provide online learning modules to make education more flexible and accessible.

The Evolving Landscape of Education

With the increasing privatization of academic institutions, universities are now integrating professional certifications into their programs to enhance student employability. As reported by Free Press Journal, approximately 65,000 school students in coastal regions are being introduced to coding and robotics at an early age through a government-led skilling initiative designed to make them future-ready. Similarly, The Indian Express highlighted that the Karnataka government is launching the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Program (AEDP) across 45 government first-grade colleges from the 2024-25 academic year. This initiative aims to equip students with industry-relevant skills and hands-on experience, ensuring they are better prepared for the workforce. Such hybrid educational models play a crucial role in bridging the employability gap by integrating academic learning with practical training

At last, A degree offers a strong foundation, while certifications provide the extra edge. Instead of viewing them as competing systems, they should be seen as complementary tools in a learner’s journey. The goal is not just to run the race, but to lead it with the right mix of education and skills.


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