Himanshu Aggarwal talks to Sidhi Mishra about the recently launched AMCAT life Sciences certificate programme which tests the student’s employability skills for placement

What is AMCAT ABlE life Sciences certification programme aboutIJ

This programme has been launched in partnership with Aspiring Minds and Association of Biotechnology led Enterprises (ABlE)to assess the employability quotient of students aspiring to work for the Biotech industry . The exam is conducted at the job-seeking level. When the students send their resume to companies in search of job, some may not get the desired result. But if they go through this exam, the certificate of employability will be an added advantage to the students and will help them in getting placements. It suggests the kind of jobs best suited to the candidate’s capabilities and roles. The marksheet, which they will get, would be valid for three years.

What is the purpose of launching thisIJ

The bio-technology education industry is a relatively young and evolving industry compounding the lack of awareness of industry needs among students and academic institutions.

The academic spectrum is wide with tens of thousands of students being trained in several life science courses each year. However, lack of awareness and useful guidance is coming in the path of employability of these students. AMCAT ABlE life Sciences a national level certification shall go a long way in enabling awareness and targeted feedback to students aspiring for the bio-technology industry and provide access to a certified pool of high quality talent to the industry.

To whom does this programme caters toIJ

This caters to all those people who are studying life sciences. The industry is inclusive of all courses like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, nursing, food technology etc along with covering degrees in Chemistry, Bio-Chemistry, Bio-technology, Micro-Biology, Pharmacy, etc.

What is the eligibility requiredIJ

A candidate, who has completed graduation in the courses like BE/BTech Biotechnology, BSc Chemistry, BSc Biotechnology, BPharma are eligible for this exam. The exam is meant for those who are seeking jobs in biotechnology industry.

What is the structure for this examIJ

It is three hour test which assesses students on language, cognitive, personality and functional/domain skills. Domain skills are specific to the course/degree the student is undergoing/ has cleared. Each test section consists of questions scored on a scale of 100 to 900. Students can select the test dates according to their convenience.   The test cost Rs 750 plus taxes per individual.

Tell us about the mechanism of feedback report given to candidates...

Every student is given their scores and a detailed employability report highlighting their strengths, weakness and how they can improve. The report comprises of seven-stroke feedback which involves National comparison (the students get to know his rank nationally), job match, performance chakra (a unique graphical representation showing student’s strengths and weaknesses), improvement tips (suggestions of online and offline study material), time management, study schedule (to improve on weak modules and sustain strength in stronger modules) and personality analysis.

Where is this exam conductedIJ

AMCAT is an online examination conducted across thousands of colleges in the country and at more than 60 plus centers across the country. The examination is proctored and taken under the invigilation of AMCAT testing team.

Which are the companies who have accepted this certification programme for placementsIJ

AMCAT is associated with ABlE which is the largest not for profit pan India forum that represents the Indian bio technology sector. There are more than 200 companies under this forum which will surely take into consideration this exam while recruiting. Being the first effort in this direction, we expect many companies to use AMCAT life Sciences certificate.