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In a pioneering step to strengthen healthcare delivery in India, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur has announced the establishment of its “School for Skills: Healthcare and Technology.” The new centre is specifically designed to train youth—particularly from rural and semi-urban backgrounds—as allied health professionals, aiming to bridge the skills gap and boost employment in the health sector.
According to the institute, the school will commence with 150 students in its inaugural batch, offering short-term certificate programs. These include training for General Duty Assistants, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT-Basic), and Phlebotomists. The curriculum is aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) and affiliated with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. Graduates will receive industry-recognized certifications from the Healthcare Sector Skill Council, enhancing their employability in healthcare institutions and hospitals nationwide.
The initiative is slated to begin classes in November 2025, with plans for future expansion. Notably, the trained professionals will serve as pivotal support at IIT Kharagpur’s own Syama Prasad Mukerji Super-Speciality Hospital, as well as participate in broader health initiatives across rural West Bengal and beyond. Some of these graduates will also contribute to field trials and the validation of new healthcare technologies developed at IIT Kharagpur, facilitating systematic health data collection in underserved communities.
IIT Kharagpur’s Director, Prof. Suman Chakraborty, called the school “a catalyst for change,” noting, “By combining skill development with cutting-edge technology, we aim to build a healthcare workforce that can serve the last mile, transform rural healthcare delivery, and contribute to the nation’s vision of inclusive growth.” The program is particularly focused on empowering women, uplifting the economically disadvantaged, and enhancing the resilience of communities against health crises.
The launch reflects IIT Kharagpur’s longstanding commitment to interdisciplinary education and innovation, and is expected to play a vital role in strengthening India’s rural healthcare system.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals for expert guidance.
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