PRESS RELEASES

  • Canada PR aspirants now have a new option to test their English proficiency

    “Pearson has introduced PTE Core, a new English language proficiency test approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The test is tailored for vocational purposes and can be used to demonstrate English proficiency for Canadian PR or citizenship. It assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills and is available for booking starting February 12.

    Indians applying for Canadian PR or Canadian citizenship now have a new choice of test for English proficiency. Pearson has opened bookings for PTE Core, its latest English language proficiency test. Approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) last year, PTE Core can now be used to demonstrate English language proficiency for permanent economic immigration to Canada or Canadian citizenship, with tests starting from February 12.

    PTE Core, an addition to the Pearson Test of English portfolio, shares distinctive features with PTE Academic. It is a two-hour, computer-based exam conducted in a test center setting, assessing four key English language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

    PTE Core is tailored for vocational test-takers, offering a real-life, non-academic focus. Developed to meet Canada's specific migration requirements and IRCC's language proficiency standards, it can be used to assess English proficiency for vocational purposes in any country.

    “We are excited to roll out PTE Core to test takers in India and help the test takers to achieve their dreams of living and working in Canada. PTE Core is a new test from Pearson, designed to offer a vocational and real-life focus to support the Canadian Government’s migration needs. This is an important step for Pearson, boosting our aim to become the global leader in English language for committed learners,” Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning, Pearson India, said.

    With Canada's focus on economic recovery and growth post-pandemic, IRCC is expanding its Levels Plan to address increasing demand. PTE Core's approval comes at an opportune time, providing new possibilities for test-takers, especially in professions like nursing, engineering, and web development.

    PTE Core addresses Canadian economic migration needs, complementing PTE Academic, accepted by IRCC since August 2023 for Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa applications. PTE Academic is already recognized by over 97% of universities and 95% of colleges in Canada, as well as governments in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. PTE Academic is also widely accepted by universities in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and 99% of UK universities.

    Delivered through Pearson VUE, the fully digital PTE Core test utilizes cutting-edge AI technology, reviewed by human raters, for scoring. Enhanced security measures, including biometric data collection, ensure a fair and precise evaluation of English language proficiency. Test-takers can book PTE Core online up to 24 hours in advance, benefit from year-round test slots worldwide, and receive results, on average, within two days.

    PTE Core will be introduced across Pearson's global network, spanning over 400 PTE centers in 118 countries, including 25 test centers in Canada.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

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  • Generative AI can have a positive impact on teaching and learning, says senior Pearson executive

    “Pearson is betting big on generative AI in education, leveraging India's talent pool for R&D. The company has technology development centres in Bengaluru and Chennai. Pearson aims to enhance the teaching and learning experience through AI integration in its global products.”

     

    Generative AI is taking giant strides across industries, including education. Pearson is also looking to bet big on it. India is a pivotal hub for innovation and product development for Pearson, playing a critical role in the company’s global research and development (R&D) roadmap, said a senior executive.

    “The country has a vast talent pool specialising in education, technology, and content creation, providing us with a valuable resource for developing localised content, enhancing digital products, and driving innovation,” said Marykay Wells, CIO, Pearson.

    The company has set up technology development centres in Bengaluru and Chennai that create global products. Talking about Generative AI, Wells said, Generative AI can have a positive impact on teaching and learning, and eventually how the company serves its customers.

    “This is a significant positive opportunity for Pearson.We have embedded AI across our key products in a way that enhances the teaching and learning experience and improves lives. The structures, methods, and pedagogy behind our IP make it unique in the market. We have proprietary AI data sets [numbers, sequences, algorithms] that are creating rich learning experiences, delivered through PTE, Mondly and Credly,” she said.

    Organisations have become the new centers of learning, Wells said, where working professionals embark on their upskilling journeys. “Enterprise learning is a big opportunity for us. We are developing our portfolio to meet the requirements of professionals who are now “learning as they earn” and employers who want to get the best out of their people,” she said.

    Enterprise products and services comprise about 20% of global revenue across the company, primarily through its certification business in Pearson VUE.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / The Times of India

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  • Pearson India Launches The Second Edition Of ‘A History Of Ancient And Early Medieval India’ By Prof. Upinder Singh

    Pearson India recently launched the second edition of the book; ‘A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India’ authored by Prof. Upinder Singh, one of the most renowned Indian historians and professors. The official launch event was held in Delhi, attended by Prof. Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Historian & Chancellor of Ashoka University, Vinay Kumar Swamy, Country Head-Pearson India, amongst many other eminent dignitaries, authors, academicians, and educators.

    On the occasion, the author, Prof. Upinder Singh, said, “Over the years, my perspectives and interests have expanded. I have become interested in the history of ideas, the interactions between the state and the forest people, the connections between art and history, and the subcontinent’s connections with other parts of the world. I have incorporated these interests into the second edition, so it is significantly different from the first. Also, of course, there has been a great deal of new work produced by other scholars on many aspects of ancient India, which I have gained from and cited. I wanted to especially draw attention to the work of the younger generation of historians on whom we depend on to expand our understanding of ancient India in the future.”

    Commenting on the launch, Vinay Kumar Swamy, Country Head, Pearson India, said, “As we unveil the second edition of this widely acclaimed book, we remain committed to enabling lifelong learning journeys for everyone. We believe that the new edition will provide a relevant understanding of various historical concepts and theories in a much better and more effective way.”

    This new edition of the book highlights discoveries and historiographical trends by referring to the latest scientific techniques used in archaeology. The book also includes crucial discussions of ecology, forest tribes, and pastoralists, while emphasizing the experiences of subordinated classes, castes, and women. This edition also expands coverage of South Asia beyond India, outlining the multiple networks that connected India to the world.

    The first edition of the book was published in 2008, to integrate archaeology and history, to include subordinated groups in social history, to give due importance to religion and philosophy, and to highlight the intellectual and aesthetic domains. Both editions of the book, aspire to create a window for questioning so that readers can approach debates with an open mind, and develop an ability to critically evaluate evidence and arguments.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

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  • Pearson BTEC partners with Buddha Group of Institutions to empower students with in-campus career skills programmes

    Further, the platform claims to have more than 30 partners in India, including universities, colleges, international schools, and private training centres.

     

    Pearson, a learning company, partnered with Buddha Group of Institutions, to offer Pearson’s BTEC courses to students. The partnership will introduce BTEC Higher Nationals (HN) Art and Design and Business Management courses at the Buddha Group of Institutions, as per the official announcement.

    Pearson BTECs are vocational skill qualification programmes, developed in consultation with industry experts, offering a diverse range of qualifications across different industries and sectors, it added.

    Pearson’s BTEC claims that its higher education qualifications are equivalent to the first and second years of a university degree, where real-life scenarios are used for assessment and assignments.

    Further, the platform claims to have more than 30 partners in India, including universities, colleges, international schools and private training centres.

    Pearson BTEC claims to offer over 24 subject areas with more than 2000 qualifications ranging from business to digital technology to art and design to healthcare and many more, enabling learners with skills relevant for the global workplace.

    “Our partnership with BTEC will help our institute to provide students with options that match their career interests and aspirations.  It will also be helpful for us to attract a diverse student body and prepare them for a globalised workforce. The courses we have chosen to provide under the BTEC Programme include management, which will be instrumental in propelling the students towards a successful and fulfilling career in line with the ever-changing global demand, “Nitesh Gupta, director, Budha Group of Institutions, said.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

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  • Generative AI to replace 46% of time spent on accounting tasks in India; impact of AI on white vs blue-collar jobs

    In India, the job roles most affected are accounting and bookkeeping (46%), followed by word processors and related operators (40%).

    Pearson's latest 'Skills Outlook' series delved into the impact of generative AI on over 5,000 jobs across five countries: Australia, Brazil, India, the US, and the UK.

    Around 30% or more of the time dedicated to tasks within certain white-collar professions, such as accountants, bookkeeping clerks, word processor operators, administrative secretaries, and stall/market salespersons, could potentially be handled by generative AI.

    In contrast, less than 1% of the typical workload for blue-collar workers, including weavers, knitters, waiters, bakers/cooks, among others, might be feasibly taken over by generative AI during a workweek, according to a report by the learning company Pearson.

    Numerous administrative roles involve repetitive tasks—like scheduling appointments or managing calls—that are easily replicable by generative AI. This pattern is particularly noticeable in India, where the report underscores a significant 29% difference in the impact of tasks between the most affected white-collar and blue-collar jobs.

    In India, the job roles most affected are accounting and bookkeeping (46%), followed by word processors and related operators (40%).

    Mike Howells, President of Pearson Workforce Skills, highlighted, "As employees look to the future, understanding which jobs are at risk from AI allows them to prepare. They should also consider where new roles might be created by Gen AI. Workers and employers should look at how they can ride this wave of change by using the best of AI and the best of human skills together."

    The least affected jobs in India encompass working proprietors, directors, executives in transport and communication, and sales and marketing managers. Pearson's latest 'Skills Outlook' series delved into the impact of generative AI on over 5,000 jobs across five countries: Australia, Brazil, India, the US, and the UK.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / Business Today

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  • Generative AI a bigger threat to select white-collar jobs

    In India, Gen AI could be deployed to handle around 30% or more of the time spent on tasks involved in the working week of some white-collar roles. In comparison, in many cases, less than 1% of a blue-collar worker's job in a working week could be done by GenAI, the report says.


    Generative AI is poised to have a more profound impact on certain white-collar jobs than blue-collar ones in the next ten years, showed new workplace research from learning company Pearson.

    Blue collar roles - especially those requiring more creative, manual, and collaborative tasks – are likely to face less disruptions from the accelerated adoption of Gen AI aimed at driving productivity.

    The third edition of the Pearson Skills Outlook series: ‘Gen AI-proof jobs’ – shared exclusively with ET -- analyses the impact of Gen AI on more than 5,000 jobs in five countries – India, Australia, Brazil, the US, and the UK.

    In India, Gen AI could be deployed to handle around 30% or more of the time spent on tasks involved in the working week of some white-collar roles. In comparison, in many cases, less than 1% of a blue-collar worker’s job in a working week could be done by GenAI, the report sayssays.

    There is a difference of 29% between the task-level impact of the most impacted white- and blue-collar jobs in India. The five blue-collar jobs least impacted by Gen AI have no impacted tasks, while the least impacted white-collar jobs all have around 10% or more of their jobs impacted at a task level.

    The variation in impact between white-collar and blue-collar roles can be related to the nature of tasks performed by each role, the report suggests. Many administrative roles contain repetitive tasks – such as scheduling appointments or answering and directing calls - that can be easily replicated by Gen AI.

    In India, the most impacted white-collar jobs are (by % of time spent on tasks that can be automated or augmented by Gen AI): accounting and bookkeeping clerks (46%); word processor and related operators (40%); administrative secretaries and related associate professionals (38%); stall and market salespersons (30%) and accountants (28%).

    The most impacted blue-collar jobs in India are weavers, knitters and related workers (17%); basketry weavers, brush makers and related workers (17%); weaving and knitting machine operators (16%), waiters and bartenders (15%) and bakers, pastry cooks and confectionery makers (15%).

    “As employees look to the future, understanding which jobs are at risk from AI allows them to prepare. They should also consider where new roles might be created by GenAI,” said Mike Howells, president, Pearson Workforce Skills. “Workers and employers should look at how they can ride this wave of change by using the best of AI and the best of human skills together – whether that is using the technology to take over repetitive tasks, so people can focus on high-value activities, or enhancing those uniquely human skills like creativity, communication and leadership.”

    For this Skills Outlook research report, Pearson used tools based on Gen AI to analyse the specific tasks related to more than 5,000 jobs and how much time is being spent on each task currently.


    Calculations were done on how much of a job’s work, by time spent on individual tasks, would be affected by Gen AI. This gives the percentage of time saved due to Gen AI by 2032, per task – and, consequently, to ascertain which jobs will be most or least impacted.

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / The Economic Times

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  • Nine essential skills in the digital age

    To thrive, workers will need to learn new skills, as well as improve their collaboration, problem-solving and leadership abilities

    As technology rapidly evolves and the job market undergoes dynamic shifts, the skillset required for workplace success is undergoing a transformation. In the midst of the new industrial revolution, staying ahead necessitates the cultivation of these skills, which not only enhance job performance but also foster personal growth and adaptability. 

    Millennials and Gen X workers exhibit optimism regarding their career growth prospects and a whopping 88 per cent of Indian workers are committed to continuous learning throughout their careers to remain relevant and appealing to employers, according to the Pearson Skills Outlook report. According to the report, the top skills that will appeal to Indian employers in the next 5-10 years include artificial intelligence/ machine learning, data processing and coding/ programming. 

    Here, we explore the essential human skills that will be in high demand in the future. 

    Collaboration and problem-solving 

    The nature of work is evolving, with teams becoming increasingly diverse and remote. Collaboration skills are essential for effectively working with colleagues, whether they are in the office or halfway around the world. Effective communication, teamwork and adaptability are crucial for building successful collaborations.

     Critical thinking 

    In an era of information overload and misinformation, critical thinking is paramount. Cultivating critical thinking enables you to discern fact from fiction and make well-informed decisions, a vital skill in both professional and personal life.

    Digital literacy 

    In a world where digital technologies are omnipresent, digital literacy is no longer an option but a necessity. Digital literacy enables individuals to communicate, collaborate and adapt to new technologies effectively. Staying informed about emerging technologies and their potential impact on your work and industry is key to thriving in the digital age.

     Data literacy 

    Data is now the lifeblood of businesses, making data literacy a valuable skill. It involves the ability to access, analyse, and interpret data to make informed decisions. As organisations increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, data literacy is a skill that will set you apart.

    Emotional intelligence 

    Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, manage, and express one's emotions, as well as empathise with others. Being emotionally intelligent allows individuals to build stronger relationships, navigate workplace challenges and adapt to changing social dynamics. 

    Curiosity and continuous learning 

    Nurturing curiosity and maintaining a steadfast dedication to ongoing learning are non-negotiable. Embracing a growth-oriented mindset and a genuine thirst for new knowledge are the cornerstones of staying adaptable and pertinent. Moreover, certifications offered by professional organisations and online platforms carry substantial significance, further enhancing your professional standing. 

    Communication skills 

    Communication, though perennially vital, has taken on fresh significance in the digital era. Effective communication relies on critical skills such as storytelling, public speaking, the ability to distil complex information and active listening. Proficiency in English is recognised as a pivotal skill for career advancement, and apps like Mondly have introduced gamified learning experiences that allow individuals to master the language at their own pace.

    Self-management 

    Self-management involves understanding your emotions, triggers, and strengths. It includes self-control, self-motivation, and integrity. Self-aware individuals can navigate challenges with resilience and maturity, contributing to their personal and professional growth. 

    Leadership skills 

    Even if you're not in a traditional leadership role, leadership skills are highly valuable. These skills include role modelling, crafting a compelling vision, organisational awareness, decisiveness, grit and the ability to cope with uncertainty. Developing leadership skills can set you on a path to lead and inspire others.

     As the workplace continues to evolve in the face of technological advancements and global changes, human skills are becoming increasingly valuable. Cultivating these skills will not only enhance your employability but also enrich your personal life. Embrace the journey of continuous learning and self-improvement to stay ahead in the ever-changing world of work.

    The author is country head, Pearson India 

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

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  • Workers open to new employment opportunities and obtain new education amid economic uncertainty: Pearson report

    A majority of Gen Z workers in India are reconsidering their career paths due to the challenging economic situation and work environment. They are actively seeking new jobs and are less optimistic about the job market compared to millennials. Factors driving this quest for newer jobs include better pay, flexibility, and work-life balance.

    Amid ever challenging economic situation and work environment, majority of Gen Z in India is rethinking their career path either by obtaining newer skills and education to rise further in their careers or help get newer jobs.

    According to the Pearson Skills Outlook Survey – Employee view, the Gen Z in India are likely to be more actively seeking a new job as compared to Gen X but are less likely to feel optimistic about the state of the job market compared to millennials. The survey pointed out that 88% of Gen Z workers in India have had to rethink their career path due to the uncertainties of the last three years. This is significantly higher than the 67% of millennials and 55% of Gen X workers who said the same.

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  • Education Empowers Change: India's vision for a globalised future

    India's pursuit of becoming a 5 trillion-dollar economy recognises the pivotal role that education plays in achieving this monumental objective Education stands as the most potent tool one can wield to reshape the world- Nelson Mandela In an era marked by globalisation and rapid technological progress, the global integration of education has emerged as a pivotal element in the development strategies of nations worldwide.

    India, with its promising higher education landscape, currently hosts approximately 38 million students across a staggering 50,000 educational institutions, including a noteworthy 1,057 universities.

    Expanding Opportunities for Students and Professionals

    India's ambitious goal of doubling its current gross enrolment rate of 26.3% to 50% by the year 2035 harmonizes seamlessly with the global perspective on higher education. Notably, India holds the distinction of being the second-largest contributor of international students globally. The National Education Policy of 2020 has pledged to open up India's traditionally tightly regulated academic system to the global stage, ushering in an era characterized by inclusivity and collaboration.

     

    The year 2022 witnessed a significant resurgence in the number of Indian students pursuing higher education abroad, with more than 6.5 lakh students venturing overseas, as reported by the Ministry of Education. This marked a notable increase from 4.54 lakh in 2017 to 5.86 lakh in 2019.

    However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp decline, with only 2.59 lakh students going abroad in 2020. In 2021, over 4.4 lakh Indians pursued higher education overseas, reflecting a resilient spirit despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

    In a bid to offer a global educational environment to Indian students within the nation's borders, the Ministry of Education has forged strategic MoUs with Australian universities, Deakin and Wollongong, enabling them to establish campuses in Gujarat's GIFT City. This move provides Indian students with diverse global education options without leaving their homeland.

    India's Journey towards a Globally Competent Education Hub

    In a world that is increasingly interconnected, India stands on the precipice of a transformative journey, internationalising its higher education landscape to foster a more globally connected academic community.

    India's pursuit of becoming a 5 trillion-dollar economy recognises the pivotal role that education plays in achieving this monumental objective.

    Moreover, with a target of raising the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education to 50% by 2035 and plans to add 35 million seats in higher education institutions, the government of India has undertaken various initiatives to facilitate students:

    Flexible Curriculum: The policy advocates for flexible higher education curricula, empowering students to explore diverse subjects in accordance with global trends.

    Multiple Entry/Exit Points: It encourages students to enter and exit their educational journey at various stages, promoting lifelong learning and skill development.

     

    National Research Foundation: This foundation fosters a robust research culture, attracting international scholars and researchers.

    Technology Integration: Emphasis is placed on equitable technology use, exemplified by the National Educational Technology Forum.

    Multilingual Education: The policy promotes education in multiple languages to cater to diverse student preferences.

    Indian Knowledge Systems: It integrates India's rich knowledge heritage into mainstream education while connecting with global knowledge.

    Vocational Education Integration: The policy blends vocational education with general education to equip students with practical skills.

    Industry-Academia Collaboration: It encourages closer ties between educational institutions and industries for curriculum alignment and internships.

    Reskilling and Upskilling: Recognising the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly changing job market.

    Inclusive and Sustainable Skills: Inclusive skill development initiatives, including fee relief for women and marginalised communities.

    International Mobility: Initiatives like the Livelihood program enhance Indian youth's global employability. The Government of India has opened doors to a more diverse student body and fosters international collaboration, expanding opportunities for students and professionals alike.

    Fostering Workforce Development in a Highly Dynamic Environment

    In today's business landscape, companies operate within a highly dynamic environment. The ever-evolving technology sector, competition emerging from new industry segments, shifts in regulations and political events exert multifaceted influences on businesses. These shifts impose distinctive demands not solely on leadership but also on the entire workforce.

    These transformations are not merely altering the processes of work, but they also affect the employees themselves and the very nature of their tasks. To remain pertinent in this rapidly changing era, it is imperative for individuals to continually enhance their skills and adapt.

    To address the crucial need for upskilling and workforce development, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has collaborated with educational providers like Pearson to offer vocational training and skill development programs. This partnership plays a pivotal role in addressing the employability requirements of Indian youth and bolstering ongoing reforms in the education system.

    Additionally, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has forged substantial partnerships with prestigious organisations, including Pearson, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, LinkedIn, CISCO, Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, deAsra, IITs, and numerous others. These collaborations empower the ministry to harness the knowledge and resources of these entities, resulting in the development of innovative and industry-aligned skill development programs.

    In addressing the pressing challenge of the skill gap in Indian professionals aspiring to study or work abroad, it is crucial to invest in the workforce of the future. Thankfully, learning companies are creating an environment for upskilling and reskilling while leveraging the synergies between their workforce skills and English language learning divisions. The ability to embrace lifelong learning is now a critical asset for career and workplace growth.

    ELP Unlocking Global Opportunities for Indian Skilled Professionals

    English language proficiency is one such skill that provides Indian skilled workers an advantage to compete globally. NEP has emphasised both digitisation and the use of technology in education.

    Various platforms are available to prove English proficiency for work, study, or migration abroad; one such platform is PTE Academic. It serves as evidence of English-language proficiency for visa applications in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as for Indian students utilising the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for Canadian study applications.

    As India opens its doors to diverse educational opportunities and facilitates international mobility, it not only expands horizons for its students but also strengthens its position on the global stage.

    Initiatives aimed at curriculum flexibility, vocational integration, and industry-academia collaboration are shaping a more dynamic and responsive educational ecosystem.

    Furthermore, India's efforts in workforce development, upskilling, and reskilling are essential in preparing its youth for the ever-evolving demands of the global job market. Collaborations with key players in the industry and the emphasis on lifelong learning are equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

    By embracing internationalisation, India is nurturing future leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge, and cross-cultural competencies necessary to excel in an increasingly interconnected world.

    ( Author Vinay Swamy is the Country Head of Pearson India.)

    About Pearson

    At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

    Visit us at pearsonplc.com

    For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

    Read More / Hindustan Times

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