NSDC, Pearson to bring IT specialist certification, English language programmes for Indian youth

NEW DELHI: The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and Pearson have joined hands to launch IT specialist certification and English language testing programmes for Indian youth. The partnership aims to enhance the employability of youth in the country.

The partnership was formally announced on July 30 at the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2023, held at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. The announcement took place in the presence of the Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The agreement was signed by Ved Mani Tiwari, chief executive officer of the National Skill Development Corporation, and Vinay Swamy, country head for Pearson India.

“This collaboration will bring Pearson VUE’s IT Specialist Certification and Pearson’s English Language Testing programs, namely Versant and Mondly, to NSDC’s eLearning platforms,” the official statement read.

The Mondly platform, a global online language learning solution, offers top-tier instruction in English and 40 other languages through its app, website, virtual reality, and augmented reality products, it said.

On the occasion, Ved Mani Tiwari stated: “The infusion of Pearson VUE’s esteemed certification testing programs into NSDC’s eLearning Platforms will undoubtedly amplify employability prospects. Together, we embark on a journey to equip our youth with the expertise and language proficiency vital to succeed in an evolving professional landscape. This collaboration stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to nurture skill excellence and career growth for the youth of India.”

Gary Gates, managing director of Pearson VUE, the division responsible for the IT Specialist Certification program, emphasized: “Partnering with NSDC in this transformative initiative highlights Pearson’s commitment to empowering India’s workforce with cutting-edge skills and language proficiency. Through this collaboration, we aim to enhance accessibility of the globally relevant IT Specialist Certification program, which confirms the foundational IT skills today’s employers seek. Additionally, Pearson’s English language testing programs enable learners to further thrive in today’s competitive job market.”

Pearson VUE operates an extensive network of nearly 20,000 highly secure exam centres worldwide, facilitating online testing in more than 180 countries.