Jaipur, Sept. 19 -- After Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, Rajasthan has rolled out the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP), signalling a key reform in higher education with the aim of bridging the gap between classrooms and careers. The move is being seen as a decisive step towards implementing the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises integrating academic learning with skill and vocational education. "The future belongs to students who are not only well-read but also work-ready. AEDP ensures they leave college with both-knowledge and industry experience," a senior official from Rajasthan's Higher Education Department said. He said in Rajasthan the apprenticeship will be done every year, whereas in other states it is conducted in final year of the College. The student will be given graduation degree and apprenticeship certificate in the final year. Almost 300 students have enrolled so far in 10 colleges. The official said the students will be given stipend in the final year, per month a minimum of Rs.12,000. In March 2025, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued detailed guidelines on AEDP, laying out a structured model to embed apprenticeships, internships, and skill modules directly into higher education. Under this system, students graduate with a recognised degree and practical exposure, making them more employable from the outset. Rajasthan granted approvals and recognition to AEDP courses, ensuring they carry the same weight as traditional degrees. Four NAAC-accredited universities - University of Rajasthan (Jaipur), Jai Narain Vyas University (Jodhpur), Mohanlal Sukhadia University (Udaipur), and Maharaja Ganga Singh University (Bikaner) - have taken the lead, encouraging affiliated colleges to secure academic permissions for the rollout. Already, 10 colleges across Rajasthan have rolled out AEDP courses, including Meera Girls College in Udaipur, Dungar College in Bikaner, and Maharana Pratap P.G. College in Chittorgarh. The programmes focus on high-demand sectors such as retail marketing-covering sales, supply chain, and customer management; banking and finance....