HYDRABAD: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has instructed all the schools affiliated to it to implement skill education initiatives urgently, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and NCF-School Education.
These initiatives aim to integrate vocational skills with the curriculum, helping bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world applications.
“The CBSE aims to prepare well-rounded and future-ready students. CBSE’s efforts also align with India’s vision to become a global leader in skill development,” a notification issued by the CBSE said.
The CBSE seeks to prepare students for a rapidly changing workforce and promote a skilled, self-reliant generation for India’s future growth by emphasising the need for swift action.
Major initiatives related to skill education
Skill modules for students of classes VI to XII: The CBSE has introduced skill modules for students from classes 6 to 12, which can be opted through classes, hobby clubs, or self-learning online. The modules are project-based, and CBSE has developed a portal for registration and certification.
For direct link to the portal, click here.
Skill subjects in Classes IX to XII: The board offers 22 skill subjects for classes 9-10 and 43 skill subjects for classes 11-12. The schools need no separate permission or fees to introduce these subjects.
Handholding and mentoring: The CBSE is providing resources to help schools introduce skill subjects and modules, with links available for submitting details about the offerings.
National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF): The skill subjects are mapped to NSQF levels, ensuring a clear pathway for students in job roles with defined study hours. Students are advised not to change skill subjects in classes 10 and 12.
Composite Skill Labs: Schools should establish Composite Skill Labs without fail by 2026, providing the necessary equipment for skill education.
District Skill Coordinators (DSCs): The CBSE is appointing DSCs for districts to ensure smooth implementation of these initiatives.
Awareness and capacity building: Special programmes are being organised regularly for principals and teachers, including industry collaborations. All skill education programmes are free and recognised for continuous professional development (CPD).
Skill expos and career guidance: The CBSE organises many events such as hackathons, ideathons, and skill expos to provide students with experiential learning opportunities.
Comprehensive career guidance: A ‘Compendium of Careers and Education Pathways’ has been prepared to guide students pursuing skill subjects in Class 12, available on the CBSE website.
Access to resources: Textbooks, sample question papers, and other materials for skill subjects are available on the CBSE website.
For feedback and suggestions, schools are encouraged to share the success stories of alumni and provide input to the CBSE.
To see the full notification on skill development initiative, click here.