Arvind Mahila College would start a programme on technical vocational education and training from the next session to empower women as part of the Centre’s National Vocational Education Qualification Framework scheme.

The course would provide the students with an opportunity to enhance their skills from the Plus II-level to research programmes in trades that will also improve their skills. The Bihar School Examination Board will certify the Plus II students.

Sources said the Centre had launched the programme in 2011-12 keeping in the importance of the National Vocational Education Qualifications Framework. The objective was to make up the gap between demand and supply of skilled women in priority sectors such as engineering and technology, home science, health and parameter and tourism and hospitality. The Union human resource development ministry had introduced National Vocational Education Qualifications Framework in the 12th Five-Year Plan that integrates general education and technical, vocational education and training.

Arvind Mahila College authorities have sought a permission from the Bihar School Examination Board to start courses like information and computer technology, bakery and confectionery, commercial garment making and dress design, medical lab technicians, healthcare and beauty culture, auxiliary nursing and midwifery, tourism and hospitality and mass media. The college is also holding discussions with Magadh University authorities.

Principal Asha Singh told The Telegraph: “We want our girls to be more skilled and select the fields they are interested in. We will start the vocational courses from the Plus II level.”