NASSCOM rolls out NAC-TECH across India

One lakh candidates to take test in the next 12 months
Skills assessment program for engineering students to benchmark their entry level skills in the IT industry

NASSCOM’s GMAT-like standardised test to gauge employability of fresh graduates in engineering and technology-based industries will allow students to take a single test that will be valid for multiple employers.
Termed NAC-Tech (NASSCOM’s Assessment of Competence – Technology), it will be used to screen applicants for jobs in the two specific segments, according to Sandhya Chintala, Director – Education Initiative, NASSCOM. The test has been evolved with inputs from some of the IT majors in India, including TCS, Cognizant, Infosys, Wipro, Satyam, Hexaware, IBM, and Accenture. It will evaluate both soft skills and domain competence of candidates. “NAC-Tech is built like a first filter for all educational institutions, companies, and candidates. Students can take the tests online and will be assigned a score, which will facilitate employment.

Whereas, the certification test has two parts. 'Part A' is mandatory and has tests on verbal ability, analytical reasoning, attention to detail, learning ability, programming and written English skills; and 'Part B' is optional and has tests in IT concepts, electronics and communication, mechanical, civil, chemical, textile, bio-technology, electrical and telecommunication engineering. Candidates depending on their specialisation can take a test in any one area. All scores are valid for a period of one year from the date of assessment. NASSCOM will conduct regular feedback programmes and facilitate interviews for candidates with endorsing IT companies. The results and analysis of the NAC tech assessment will also be regularly shared with the universities and government to make any recommended changes in curriculum and faculty development programs.

According to Ms Sangeeta Gupta, Vice President, NASSCOM, “Talent suitability continues to be a key concern for the IT industry with only 25% of the total engineering graduate pool available in India having the requisite skills. The NAC Tech program aims to address this demand-supply gap by helping students understand the requirements of the IT industry, assess and improve their skills based on the program, and tap employment opportunities in the fast growing knowledge sector.