Hyderabad: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) has partnered with the Retail Sector Skill Council of India (RASCI), based in Mumbai, to launch a “Stipend Based Apprenticeship Program (SAP).” This collaboration was formalized on Monday at the university campus. Dr. L. Vijaya Krishna Reddy, BRAOU’s Registrar, and James Raphael, RASCI’s Executive Director, signed the agreement in the presence of Prof. Ghanta Chakrapani, Vice-Chancellor.
Prof. Chakrapani highlighted that BRAOU is the first university to collaborate with RASCI. He believes this partnership will greatly improve students’ practical skills alongside their academic learning. The university is committed to offering scholarship-supported education that encourages skill enhancement. He urged students to seize this opportunity for stipend-based learning.
University officials plan to visit study centers across Telangana to inform students about this program. Updates will be available on BRAOU’s website, and a combined admission notification will be released. Prof. Chakrapani stated that the goal is to provide job opportunities and support entrepreneurial aspirations for every student. Participants in the program can earn monthly stipends starting from Rs 7,000, with potential to reach Rs 24,000 or more. The program is open to graduates and applicants aged between 18 and 28.
Prof. Chakrapani also mentioned the possibility of future partnerships with other prestigious institutions to further benefit students. James Raphael from RASCI emphasized their aim to support each student individually. The program will prepare students for the workforce through collaboration with educational institutions. It focuses on the four pillars of Individual, Institution, Industry, and India (Four-I’s), offering a comprehensive educational experience. Raphael assured students of gaining financial independence and empowerment through this initiative.
