The Apollo University introduces EWYL turning learning into experience
The Apollo University has taken a significant step towards empowering its students by launching the Earn While You Learn scheme, a unique initiative that blends academics with practical exposure, operated under the Directorate of Student Affairs. The Registrar, Prof. M Potharju, with his passionate vision, initiated this scheme to provide students with an invaluable opportunity to experience the essence of work life during their academic journey.
The appointment letters for the first batch of selected students were distributed on August 23, 2025, at 2:30 PM in Lecture Hall 4, in the gracious presence of the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor. Out of 209 applications received across 12 departments, 19 students were selected to fill the 29 available positions.
From a student’s perspective, this scheme is more than just financial support; it is a chance to gain real-world work experience within the university ecosystem itself. Students are appointed on a rotational basis for three months in different departments, working a maximum of 8 hours per week beyond their regular academic schedule. This flexible structure ensures that the students’ studies remain their top priority, while also enabling them to explore the dynamics of workplace discipline, punctuality, communication, and responsibility.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor described the program as a new beginning for the university, one that not only helps the institution assess the hidden potential of its students but also prepares them for future employment. He emphasized that such exposure would train students in balancing academics with work, building the confidence to take up responsibilities, and nurturing professional conduct.
Importantly, he also stressed that the safety and well-being of the appointed students remains the responsibility of the respective departments. The Vice Chancellor hinted at expanding the scheme in the future, depending on institutional requirements, so that many more students can benefit from this model.
The enthusiasm among the selected students was palpable. Many expressed that the scheme allows them to connect with their departments in new ways, not just as learners but as contributors. For instance, those appointed in the library see it as a chance to understand information systems; those in marketing and admissions are excited about applying their communication skills; while those in the IT and maintenance departments are eager to learn technical problem-solving in real time. Departments and directorates such as the HR Department, Central Library, Marketing & Admissions, IT, Directorate of Press & Publications, Career Counselling Cell, and others opened their doors to students, offering roles aligned with real-time administrative and operational tasks.
Dignitaries present at the event included Prof. A. Sethuramasubbiah, Controller of Examinations; Dr. Bhaskar Reddy, Dean–Health Sciences and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences; and Dr. D. Jagadeesan, Dean–School of Technology, along with faculty representatives and heads from the departments offering positions. Their presence highlighted the collective effort of the University in shaping this student-centric initiative. This initiative stands out as a student-centric step that not only creates a financial cushion but also shapes employability skills within a safe and nurturing campus environment. The scheme is overseen by the Directorate of Student Affairs under the guidance of Dr. S. S. Shani, Assistant Director, who has been actively mentoring students as they step into their new roles. By intertwining academics with workplace training, Earn While You Learn opens students the doors to grow as scholars and as professionals, ready to balance both work and life.