CENTRE FOR ECONOMICS TRAINING AND EDUCATION
Introduction
Skillage: Centre for Economics Training and Education (S-CETE), a dynamic and forward-thinking institute dedicated to fostering excellence in the field of economics. S-CETE is designed to provide a comprehensive platform for students and professionals, empowering them with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving world of economics..
S-CETE is committed to delivering top-tier training and education that caters to a diverse range of economic aspirations. Our courses are meticulously crafted to prepare individuals for success in various competitive examinations, including NET/JRF (Economics), PG Entrance (CUCET-PG Economics), GATE (Economics), PSC Collegiate and PSC HSST (Economics), and PSC Research Assistant. These programs aim to create a well-rounded community of economics enthusiasts and professionals who are well-equipped to excel in academia, research, or public service.
In addition to the core academic courses, S-CETE recognizes the importance of enhancing practical skills in today's data-driven world. To this end, we offer specialized certification programs in Microsoft Excel, equipping participants with essential data analysis and presentation skills. Furthermore, our Certificate Course in Econometrics with Softwares, covering MS Excel, SPSS, E-Views, and STATA, ensures that students possess the proficiency required to conduct advanced economic research and analysis.
But we don't stop at theory. In today's data-driven world, practical skills are essential. S-CETE offers specialized certification programs in Microsoft Excel, equipping you with vital data analysis and presentation skills. Our Certificate Course in Econometrics with Softwares ensures you have the proficiency required to conduct advanced economic research and analysis.
Background
Economics is a discipline that continually evolves, driven by the dynamic nature of global economies, ever-evolving theories, and changing examination patterns. As a consequence, it's imperative to have an institution that not only imparts education but is also a beacon of guidance, a rigorous source of knowledge, and a platform for comprehensive learning. This need inspired the birth of "Skillage: Centre for Economics Training and Education" (S-CETE). In the state of Kerala, a growing demand for in-depth and comprehensive economics coaching has been observed, driven by several key factors:
- Lack of Rigor in Existing Coaching Centers : Presently, Kerala has several coaching centers offering economics courses. However, many of these centers predominantly rely on online sessions and recorded video classes. While online resources are valuable, they often lack the rigor and depth required for exams like NET/JRF in Economics. This absence of comprehensive, classroom-based coaching is a critical gap in the existing ecosystem
- Updated NTA Syllabus and Question Pattern : The National Testing Agency (NTA) has revised the syllabus for competitive examinations like NET. The revised syllabus emphasizes in-depth knowledge and critical thinking. Many existing coaching centers are struggling to adapt to this change, which is leaving aspirants in search of a more suitable, updated, and aligned curriculum.
- Experienced Faculty : It is crucial to have experienced faculty members who are well-versed in the subject and can provide comprehensive guidance to students. This is often missing in the current coaching landscape, where inexperienced students who have recently completed their post-graduation often lead the classes.
- Real Textbooks Referencing : To succeed in these competitive examinations, students need to refer to authentic and recommended textbooks for economics. S-CETE aims to bridge this gap by ensuring that students have access to and are encouraged to refer to real, recommended textbooks to build a solid foundation in economics.
- Comprehensive Approach : Competing in these exams requires a comprehensive approach, covering various facets of economics in-depth. S-CETE aims to provide a one-stop solution for aspirants to prepare rigorously, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the most challenging exam questions.
- Central University and IIT Admissions : Admissions to central universities are now primarily conducted through the Central Universities Common Entrance Test for Postgraduate (CUCET-PG) Economics, and admission to prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) is largely based on the Graduate Aptitude Test in Economics (GATE). The availability of a comprehensive coaching center specifically focusing on these areas is limited, leaving students in search of high-quality, specialized guidance.
- Importance of Microsoft Excel and MS Office Skills : In an era driven by data, the ability to harness the power of tools like Microsoft Excel and acquire a skillset in MS Office applications is increasingly vital. These skills are not only valuable in the field of economics but are also fundamental in various professional domains. However, within our region, there is a lack of well standardized institutes offering high-quality training in Microsoft Excel and Power BI and the broader MS Office suite.
- Certificate programme in Statistics and Training : In the state of Kerala, there is a growing demand for specialized training in subjects like statistics and Econometrics, coupled with proficiency in essential software tools such as MS Excel, SPSS, E-Views, and STATA. This need arises due to several key factors. Firstly, there is a lack of specialized training in Econometrics, a crucial field within economics, which is vital for conducting empirical research and data analysis. S-CETE aims to address this gap by offering comprehensive training in Econometrics. Additionally, there is a scarcity of training opportunities in these software applications, despite their importance in econometric analysis, research, and practical applications. Furthermore, providing a certificate upon completing training in Econometrics with these software applications holds significant value, enhancing employability and creating opportunities in research, academics, and professional realms. With the growing interest in research and academics, both students and professionals are seeking mastery in Econometrics and software tools. Our guidance, structured courses, and hands-on experience contribute significantly to their success.
Proposed Programmes
- NET/JRF (Economics)
- PG Entrance (CUCET-PG Economics)
- Gate (Economics)
- PSC Collegiate and PSC HSST (Economics)
- PSC Research Assistant
- Certificate Course on Microsoft Excel
- Certificate Course in Econometrics with Softwares (MS Excel, SPSS, E-Views and STATA)
Proposed Programmes
| Sl No | Programme | Targeted Audience | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NET/JRF | MA Economics (Regular, Distance and completed Students). | 6 Months (Classes only in weekends and Holidays) |
| 2 | CUCET-PG Economics | BA Economics Final Year students who are willing to join any central universities | 3 months (Jan, Feb and March), (Classes only in weekends and Holidays) |
| 3 | Gate (Economics) | BA Economics Final Year students who are willing to join IITs | 5 months (Sep to jan) (Classes only in weekends and Holidays) |
| 4 | PSC Collegiate (Economics) | Completed MA in Economics and qualified NET | Aften the notification by PSC |
| 5 | PSC HSST (Economics) | Completed MA in Economics with B.Ed and qualified JRF/NET | Aften the notification by PSC |
| 6 | PSC Research Assistant | Completed degree in statistics/mathematics/commerce and Economics) | Aften the notification by PSC |
| 7 | Certificate Course on Microsoft Excel | Any audience | 30 classes |
| 8 | Training Programme on Statistics and Econometrics | Post graduates, Researchers and teachers | 1 month |
Opportunities
- Addressing the Gap in Economics Education : S-CETE has the opportunity to cater to the demand for comprehensive and in-depth economics coaching in Kerala, where many existing coaching centers lack rigor and depth in their programs.
- Authentic Textbooks : By encouraging students to refer to authentic and recommended textbooks for economics, S-CETE can build a solid foundation in economics and improve the success rate of its students in competitive exams
- Location Advantage : Malappuram faces a significant challenge with the lack of high-quality coaching centers in economic education, impacting individuals seeking effective education and skill development. Existing institutions often fall short in terms of qualified instructors, study materials, and infrastructure, necessitating residents to seek coaching services outside the region.
- Microsoft Excel and MS Office Skills : The institute can tap into the need for training in Microsoft Excel and the broader MS Office suite, which are crucial skills in various professional domains.
- Certificate Programs in Statistics and Training : S-CETE can address the demand for specialized training in subjects like statistics and Econometrics, along with proficiency in software tools. This can enhance employability and create opportunities in research, academics, and professional realms.
Challenges and Threats
- Competition : The coaching center will face competition from existing institutes and online resources. Competing with established players can be challenging.
- Quality Assurance : Maintaining high-quality faculty is a challenge as the govt imposed restriction of college teachers in encaging in coaching activities and ensuring the delivery of quality education will be an ongoing challenge
- Adaptation to Changing in Question Pattern : As examination and question patterns can changing each year, S-CETE needs to continuously adapt to stay relevant
- Student Enrollments : Attracting a sufficient number of students to sustain the institute can be a challenge, especially during the initial stages
- Technology Integration : Implementing and managing technology for online and hybrid learning, if offered, can be complex and costly.
- Retention and Success Rates : Sustaining high student retention and success rates in competitive exams is a constant challenge and a key measure of the institute's success
- Changing Learning Preferences : Adapting to evolving preferences for online, hybrid, or traditional classroom learning can be challenging.
Marketing Strategies
- Targeted Awareness Campaign : Launch a targeted awareness campaign in colleges in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Palakkad districts through partnerships with colleges.
- Detailed Brochure : Creating a detailed and separate PDF brochure for each S-CETE programme. It should include a brief introduction to S-CETE, highlighting its mission and commitment to excellence in economics education, Program Overview, Faculty Profiles, Curriculum Details, Facilities and Infrastructure, Admission Process, Fees and Financial Assistance etc.
- Online Presence : Establish a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media profiles. Use these platforms to showcase the program's features, faculty, and success stories.
- Content Marketing : Develop and share high-quality content related to economics, competitive exams, and career prospects in the field. This can be in the form of blog posts, videos, and webinars.
- Testimonials : Gather and display testimonials from successful students who have benefited from S-CETE's programs.
- Open Houses and Seminars : : Organize regular open houses and free seminars on economics-related topics. This allows potential students to experience the teaching style and expertise of S-CETE faculty.
- Collaborations with Colleges : Partner colleges, and universities to provide information about S-CETE and its programs. Consider offering discounts to students from these institutions.
- Online Advertising : Use targeted online advertising on social media platforms to reach potential students interested in economics and competitive exams
- Scholarships and Financial Aid : Introduce scholarship programs to attract economically disadvantaged but academically talented students
- Faculty Expertise : Emphasize the experienced faculty members and their qualifications. Highlight their achievements and contributions in the field of economics.
- Regular Updates on Curriculum : Keep the curriculum and course offerings updated to align with changing exam patterns and syllabi. Communicate these updates to students and potential applicants.
Curriculum and Course Details
- NET/JRF (Comprehensive Syllabus prepared by S-CETE)
- CUCET-PG Economics (Syllabus provided by NTA) Economics)
- Gate (Syllabus provided by Ministry of education)
- PSC Collegiate (Comprehensive Syllabus prepared by S-CETE)
- PSC HSST (Comprehensive Syllabus prepared by S-CETE)
- PSC Research Assistant (Syllabus provided by Kerala PSC
- Certificate Course on Microsoft Excel (Syllabus prepared by S-CETE)
| Sl No | Programme | Duration | Intake | Fee | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NET/JRF | 45 days Class (Jan to June and July to Dec) | 40 | 35000 | 1400000 |
| 2 | CUCET-PG Economics | 30 days Class (Jan to April) | 40 | 18000 | 720000 |
| 3 | Gate (Economics) | 35 days (Sep to Dec) | 40 | 25000 | 1000000 |
| 4 | Certificate Course on Microsoft Excel | 25 Days Class (in Each quarter) | 40 | 15000 | 600000 |
| 5 | PSC Collegiate (Economics) | 45 days Class | 40 | 40000 | 1600000 |
| 6 | PSC HSST (Economics) | 40 days Class | 40 | 35000 | 1400000 |
| 7 | PSC Research Assistant | 30 days Class | 40 | 20000 | 800000 |
| 8 | Training in Statistics and Econometrics | 1 month | 30 | 30000 | 900000 |