In a significant move to align with India’s growing focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) skill development, the Board of Practical Training (BOPT), Eastern Region, has officially rolled out a new AI Apprenticeship facility on the NATS 2.0 portal. This initiative aims to integrate AI-based training modules into existing apprenticeship programs and equip the next generation with future-ready skills.
What’s New in NATS 2.0?
The new feature enables establishments to tag apprenticeship contracts specifically for AI training. This marks a notable upgrade to the NATS (National Apprenticeship Training Scheme) platform, making it more inclusive of emerging technologies.
Key Highlights of the Update:
AI Apprenticeship Tagging:
While creating an apprenticeship contract, a new checkbox allows you to tag an apprentice as an “AI Apprentice.”
Mandatory Inputs:
Upon selecting the AI Apprentice option, you must specify:
- The Apprenticeship Training Sector
- The Soft Skills components that will be imparted during training
Advertisement Posting Feature:
Establishments can now post AI Apprenticeship opportunities through the same process used for standard apprenticeship advertisements.
Updated Portal Records:
Contracts marked as AI Apprenticeships will be reflected accordingly in the NATS portal records.
Why This Matters
This addition is a strategic step in nurturing AI capabilities within India’s workforce. It supports the national vision of advancing AI talent and enables industries to contribute actively by training apprentices in AI-relevant skills.
Next Steps for Establishments
Organizations registered under NATS 2.0 are encouraged to:
- Start tagging AI Apprentices during contract creation.
- Begin posting relevant AI apprenticeship opportunities.
- Stay tuned for further enhancements to the portal.
The BOPT has promised ongoing updates to strengthen this initiative, with more tools and support to be rolled out in due course.
