New Mandatory Internship Program for Students

Summary of Key Points from APSCHE Internship Initiative

Overview of the Initiative:

• Mandatory Internship: Introduction of a semester-long internship requirement for all undergraduate students in Andhra Pradesh starting November 16, 2026.
• Duration and Credits:
  • 360 hours of internship equivalent to 12 academic credits.

Objectives:

• Industry-Academia Linkage: Aimed at strengthening ties between educational institutions and industries.
• Enhance Employability: Designed to improve job readiness of graduates.

Compliance and Guidelines:

• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: The program aligns with NEP 2020 articulating the need for practical experience in education.
• UGC Guidelines and CCFUP: Developed in accordance with the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Curriculum and Credit Framework for Undergraduate Programmes.
• National Credit Framework (NCrF): Integration with NCrF emphasizes a standards-based approach to education and employability.

Implementation Details:

• Institutional Structure: Final-year students will undertake internships based on their degree duration:

  • Three-year degree courses: Sixth semester.
  • Four-year degree courses (including Honours): Eighth semester.

• Institute-Industry Connect (IIC) Portal:

  • A platform for students to find stipulated internships.
  • Required registration of all undergraduate students via the portal, integrated with DigiLocker for Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) IDs.

Internship Prioritization:

• Stipend-based Opportunities: Priority will be given to internships that offer stipends.
• Non-stipendiary internships: Allowed only if stipend opportunities are inadequate.

Registration for Industry Partners:

• Commencement: Industry partners can register starting November 4, 2026.
• Eligibility: Companies (including MSMEs, NGOs, government departments) must verify details (e.g., incorporation certificates, PAN, GST registration) for eligibility to post internships.

Areas of Focus for Internships:

• Special emphasis on sectors including:
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Quantum Technology
  • Semiconductors
  • Solar Energy
  • Green Hydrogen
  • Ports and Emerging Technologies

Responsibilities of Educational Institutions:

• Universities and colleges directed to:
  • Appoint nodal officers and internship coordinators to facilitate student registration and oversee the process.
  • Ensure compliance with guidelines and immediate circulation of information regarding the internship requirements.

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This summary encapsulates the foundational aspects and critical implications of the APSCHE's internship initiative, reflecting its alignment with national educational frameworks and economic objectives.