You do not need to spend a lot to learn skills employers value. India has several government-backed learning platforms that offer courses free of charge. Here are three worth knowing.
SWAYAM
SWAYAM is the Government of India’s platform for online courses, covering school, undergraduate, postgraduate and professional subjects taught by faculty from Indian institutions. Anyone can enrol and learn for free. If you want a certificate, many courses offer an optional proctored exam, which may have a fee.
NPTEL
NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning) is an initiative of the IITs and IISc. It offers courses in engineering, computer science, management, humanities and more. Course content is free; certification is through a proctored exam, for which a fee is charged.
Skill India Digital Hub
Skill India Digital Hub is the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship’s platform for skilling, bringing together courses, including vocational and digital skills, in one place.
How to choose
- Start from the job you want. List the skills in 10 job descriptions and pick a course that covers one of them.
- Check the syllabus, duration and weekly time needed before enrolling.
- Finish one course at a time — a completed course is worth more than five abandoned ones.
- Apply what you learn in a small project you can show in interviews.
Course catalogues, dates and exam fees change each term. Check the official platform before enrolling.
