B'lore University takes first step to boost job skills of students

The Central Placement Cell of Bangalore University has taken a small step in making its students more employable. It conducted a skill assessment test for as many as 120 MBA students recently. The objective of the test, conducted on a pilot basis, was to assess the ability of the students in reasoning, personality development, English proficiency and competency in the subject of their specialisation. The students were evaluated for their aptitude, strengths and weaknesses. "This is a way of making the students realise where they stand. Besides, such an exercise will also give the students an idea of the career they have to pursue,” said M K Sridhar, Reader, Canara Bank School of Management Studies, who heads the placement cell. The feedback from the test would also serve as a basis for placement of the students. "Previously, placements were made on the basis of academic performance. But, this should not be the only yardstick and a holistic approach needs to be adopted,”  Sridhar said. Shashi Kumar, a third-semester student who took the tests said that he needs to improve his English language abilities. " However, I think my aptitude in mathematics and reasoning is good,” he said. The initiative could also be extended to other disciplines as well. The proposal is being discussed and it may take some time for implementation, Sridhar added. Last month, the industry representatives, at a meeting with varsity officials, had pointed out that students lack basic communication skills. The meeting was convened to elicit suggestions from the industry on improving the employability of students. Vice Chancellor B Thimmegowda had said that the curriculum would be suitably changed to meet the needs of the industry. With BU set to introduce the choice-based credit system in postgraduation courses from the next academic year, a number of measures to increase the employability of PG students are also in the pipeline. "We are planning to have a separate unit for English language. Facilities for imparting soft skills have already been put in place," the VC said. DHNS