The skill level and educational attainment of the workforce determines the productivity as well as the ability to adapt to the changing industrial environment of a nation. A majority of Indian workforce does not possess marketable skills which is an impediment in getting decent employment and improving their economic condition. Therefore, the Government of India in 2007-08 announced a scheme for up-gradation of 1396 Government ITIs into centers of excellence in specific trades and skills through Public Private Partnership. The main objective of the Public Private Partnership scheme (PPP) is to provide employable skills to the youth passing out of ITI. Existing skills of the persons can also be tested and certified under this scheme.

Objectives :

1. To provide vocational training to school leavers, existing workers, ITI graduates, etc. to improve their employability by optimally utilizing the infrastructure available in Govt., private institutions and the Industry. Existing skills of the persons can also be tested and certified under this scheme.
2. To build capacity in the area of development of competency standards, course curricula, learning material and assessment standards in the country.

Key features of the scheme :

1. Demand driven short term training courses in consultation with Industry.
2. Central government will facilitate and promote training while industry, private sector and State Governments will train the persons.
3. Optimum utilization of existing infrastructure to make training cost effective.
4. Flexible delivery mechanism (part time, weekends, full time, onsite/ offsite) to suit needs of various target groups.
5. Different levels of programs (Foundation level as well as skill up-gradation) to meet demands of various target groups.
6. The services of existing or retired faculty or guest faculty to be utilized.
7. Testing & certification of skills acquired
8. Testing of skills of trainees by independent assessing bodies, which would not be involved in training delivery, to ensure that it is done impartially.
9. The essence of the scheme is in the certification that will be nationally and internationally recognized.