“‘Earn while you learn’ scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful.” Comment. (UPSC 2021)

The “earn while you learn” model can make vocational education practical, inclusive and job-linked. But it will matter only if apprenticeships are expanded, better paid and closely tied to formal education and industry needs.

• Why strengthening is needed: Vocational courses still carry social stigma and reach only a small share of learners, far below NEP 2020’s aim of exposure for 50% students.
• Make learning work-based: Embed apprenticeships in school and college courses through the National Credit Framework and degree apprenticeship models.
• Improve access: Simplify registration for MSMEs, widen public sector participation, and ensure safe, gender-sensitive workplaces.
• Ensure fair incentives: Keep stipends adequate and linked to inflation, so poor students do not drop out.
• Broaden sectoral reach: Include traditional trades, artisans and gig work, not just a few large industries.

Thus, the scheme should move from a narrow training support measure to a strong bridge between education, livelihood and dignity of work.