Aptech & Medhavi Skills University sign training pact
Aptech has signed a memorandum of understanding with Medhavi Skills University, setting out a joint framework for vocational training and degree-linked programmes in India.
The partnership combines Aptech's training network with Medhavi Skills University's role as an awarding and certification body. Together, they plan to deliver project-based engagements across the country focused on skill development, vocational education and programmes linked to formal academic pathways.
Under the arrangement, Aptech will be the preferred training and implementation partner for jointly undertaken projects. Medhavi Skills University, a University Grants Commission-recognised institution based in Sikkim, will serve as the awarding body and certification authority.
The structure is intended to align courses with the National Skills Qualifications Framework and the National Higher Education Qualifications Framework. Medhavi Foundation, a CSR-1 registered entity, will also support the delivery of corporate social responsibility-funded work under the partnership.
The alliance is intended to support a range of programmes, including government-funded skill development schemes, corporate social responsibility and public sector-led skilling initiatives, and vocational and academic courses shaped around industry needs. These are expected to include short-term and long-term programmes, as well as Recognition of Prior Learning schemes.
Another part of the plan is to link training and certification with national digital systems, including the Skill India Digital Hub, the Academic Bank of Credits and DigiLocker, to make credentials easier to store, transfer and use.
Shared roles
The memorandum was signed by Neeraj Malik, whole-time director and chief business officer, Enterprise Business Group, Aptech, and Pravesh Dudani, founder and chancellor, Medhavi Skills University. It reflects both organisations' push to connect skills training more closely with recognised credentials and formal education pathways.
For Aptech, the deal adds to its enterprise business in training and assessment for institutions and companies. The company has operated in vocational training for decades and says it now has more than 840 centres globally, spanning information technology, media and entertainment, virtual production, beauty and wellness, retail, aviation and pre-school education.
Its business is split between individual training brands and its enterprise arm. Alongside Aptech Computer Education, its brands include Arena Animation, Maya Academy of Advanced Cinematics, Lakmé Academy powered by Aptech, Aptech Hardware & Networking Academy, Aptech Aviation & Hospitality Academy, Aptech English Learning Academy and Aptech International Pre-school.
Medhavi Skills University focuses on vocational education linked to higher education pathways. Its role in the partnership adds an academic and certification layer that could allow learners to move between short-form training and more formal qualifications.
Policy context
The agreement comes as skill development in India remains closely tied to public policy and employer demand. National qualification frameworks and digital credential systems have become more important in recent years as governments, training providers and employers seek clearer standards and easier ways to verify skills.
Recognition of Prior Learning has also become an important part of this landscape, particularly for workers who have gained skills informally or on the job. Including RPL in the partnership's scope signals that the initiative will not focus only on first-time learners entering training.
Malik said the agreement would help build a scalable, outcome-driven skilling ecosystem in India. "This collaboration with Medhavi Skills University marks a significant step towards building a scalable and outcome-driven skilling ecosystem in India. By combining Aptech's strength in large-scale training delivery with MSU's academic authority and certification framework, we aim to create industry-aligned programs that enhance employability and enable seamless academic progression for learners. The partnership is well-positioned to support government, CSR, and institutional skilling initiatives at scale," he said.
Dudani said the arrangement would connect academic standards with labour market needs. "Through this MoU, we are bringing together academic rigour and industry relevance to create a scalable model for skill development in India. At Medhavi Skills University, our focus has always been on bridging the gap between education and employability. By working closely with Aptech, we aim to deliver industry-aligned programmes, expand access to quality skilling, and enable learners to build meaningful, future-ready careers," he said.