NEXGEN AEDP
NEXGEN AEDP – Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme
Transforming Higher Education Through Industry Integration
In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, NEXGEN AEDP by ESDO empowers colleges and universities to revolutionize undergraduate education by embedding structured, hands-on apprenticeship training directly into degree programs.
What is AEDP?
The Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP) is a UGC-approved initiative that blends academic learning with real-world industry experience. It is a future-ready, employment-focused model designed to make students workforce-ready at the time of graduation.
This innovative format enables students to earn a university degree while simultaneously gaining paid apprenticeship experience, making them highly employable, confident, and industry-aligned.
Why Colleges Should Implement AEDP
Enhance Employability
Graduates receive both a degree and hands-on experience, significantly boosting job prospects.
Boost Institutional Rankings
AEDP aligns with NAAC and NIRF parameters like innovation, employability, and industry collaboration.
Build Strong Industry Linkages
Colleges partner directly with industries, making them preferred hubs for hiring and collaborations.
Leverage Government Support
Access to incentives and technical assistance through NATS (National Apprenticeship Training Scheme) and NAPS (National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme).
Increase Enrollment and Retention
AEDP attracts more students—especially those seeking industry exposure, stipends, and flexible pathways.
Benefits for Students
Earn While You Learn:
Paid apprenticeship opportunities with real companies.
Job-Ready Skills:
Practical learning aligned with industry tools, processes, and expectations.
Financial Support:
Monthly stipends ease educational expenses and motivate high performance.
Continued Education:
AEDP degrees are fully recognized for postgraduate studies (Master’s, PhD).
Faster Placements:
Industry-trained graduates are preferred for direct hiring or further employment offers.
Institutional Benefits
Revenue & Recognition
- Higher enrollment and retention
- Premium pricing for industry-integrated degrees
- CSR funding and capacity-building grants
- Improved NAAC/NIRF scores and reputation
Competitive Edge
- First-mover advantage in local/regional education space
- National recognition as a skill-integrated institution
- Increased student success rates and alumni outcomes
Flexibility & Access
- Multiple entry-exit options attract diverse learner profiles including rural students, women returnees, and working professionals.
Stakeholder Roles
| Stakeholder | Role & Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| College/University | Curriculum integration, academic delivery, mentorship, evaluation, and degree awarding |
| Industry Partner | Apprenticeship training, stipend disbursement, mentoring, compliance, and co-evaluation |
| Students/Apprentices | Complete academic and practical training, reports, and assessments |
| BOAT/Skill Council | Technical assistance, NATS portal support, policy compliance |
How AEDP Works
- Planning & Approval: Internal approval from academic councils; curriculum design with industry inputs.
- Industry Collaboration: Tripartite agreement signed between college, student, and company.
- Curriculum Integration: Classroom + practical training, starting from 2nd semester.
- Execution & Mentoring: Apprenticeship at workplace, guided by faculty and industry mentors.
- Assessment & Certification: Evaluation by both academia and industry. Degree awarded under UGC norms.
ESDO’s Role in AEDP
As a national leader in skilling and employability, ESDO plays a key enabler role in AEDP implementation:
| Stakeholder | ESDO Support Areas |
|---|---|
| Colleges/HEIs | Industry linkages, faculty orientation, curriculum integration, student placement |
| Employers | Onboarding, compliance, performance tracking, apprenticeship planning |
| Students | Career awareness, mentorship, employability certification |
| Skill Councils | Training of trainers, certification standards, curriculum alignment |
Conclusion: A Future-Ready Education Model
NEXGEN AEDP is more than a program—it is a paradigm shift in higher education. It builds a bridge between classroom and career, improves student outcomes, and elevates institutions to the forefront of India’s skilling mission under NEP 2020.
Be the institution that delivers not just degrees, but futures. Partner with ESDO today to implement AEDP.
