Tamil Nadu is set to introduce a new skill-based programme for undergraduate students in 181 government arts and science colleges, with students expected to learn one job-oriented skill every semester alongside their regular degree course.
The initiative, being developed with the Tamil Nadu State Council for Higher Education (TANSCHE), is scheduled to begin from the even semester in January 2027. Under the programme, students pursuing a conventional three-year undergraduate degree will have the opportunity to acquire six additional industry-oriented skills by the time they graduate.
One skill every semester alongside degree
The programme, earlier referred to as the “One Skill Per Semester” initiative under Naan Mudhalvan, is now being framed as “One Degree, Six Skills”. The model is based on adding a skill component to every semester rather than replacing the existing undergraduate curriculum.
For a three-year degree, students would therefore complete their regular academic programme while undertaking six skill courses during the same period.
The initiative is aimed at giving students practical exposure that can complement their academic qualifications and improve their preparedness for employment.
Programme to cover 181 government colleges
The programme will cover undergraduate students enrolled in Tamil Nadu’s 181 government arts and science colleges.
The colleges have been asked to prepare for implementation ahead of the January 2027 semester. The state has 1.30 lakh sanctioned undergraduate seats across these institutions, with 96,477 students admitted to various courses for the 2026-27 academic year so far, according to the report.
The skill courses are part of the students’ college programme. The available details do not indicate that students will have to appear for a separate entrance examination to participate.
20 skill courses identified
The higher education department has identified 20 skill courses covering areas linked to arts and basic sciences. Colleges will select the courses they intend to offer from this basket.
Each skill course is expected to involve around 30 to 45 hours of learning. Colleges will identify their offerings over the next three months and nominate expert trainers for the respective courses.
The focus will be on practical learning rather than adding another conventional theory-heavy subject to the undergraduate curriculum.
No conventional written examination
Students will not be assessed through a conventional written examination for these skill courses. Instead, the evaluation will focus on whether students can apply what they have learnt.
The reported assessment pattern gives:
| Assessment component | Weightage |
| Skill exercises | 40% |
| Individual competency | 30% |
| Final demonstrable output | 30% |
The assessment model is therefore designed around practical exercises, individual performance and a final output that demonstrates the student’s ability to use the skill.
Government colleges to work with industries
The programme also includes an industry-academia component. Government colleges have been asked to enter into MoUs with at least three leading industries.
The participating companies are expected to provide inputs for curriculum updates and create opportunities for internships and placements. Departments have also been asked to work with companies operating in their respective sectors.
The industry component is intended to bring employers closer to the curriculum and give students exposure to workplace requirements while they are still pursuing their degrees.
Programme to begin from January 2027
The “One Degree, Six Skills” programme is expected to start with the even semester in January 2027. Before implementation, colleges will finalise the skills they plan to offer and identify trainers.
TANSCHE has already been conducting outcome-based education training for faculty members as part of the preparation, according to the report.
For students entering or already pursuing undergraduate programmes in the state’s government arts and science colleges, the proposed model means that a three-year degree could be accompanied by six additional skill-learning experiences, with the emphasis placed on practical application, industry exposure and demonstrable competencies.
