Skill India Programme Takes Root in School Education

Jan. 31, 2024, 2:46 p.m.

In a transformative step towards holistic education, the Skill India Programme finds its way into the realm of school education. This initiative, focused on imparting practical skills alongside academic knowledge, is set to redefine the educational landscape. NEP 2020 has recommended the integration of vocational education into mainstream education in all educational institutions, and this initiative executes the same. Employability Skills consisting of communication self-management, information and communication technology, entrepreneurship and green skills are now a mandatory part of the vocational courses. Under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme, the vocational courses that are compliant with the National Skills Qualifications Framework are offered as additional subjects to students of grades 9 and 10, and as compulsory electives to students of grades 11 and 12.

The integration of the Skill India Programme in schools promises to equip students with real-world competencies, fostering a generation adept not only in theoretical knowledge but also in practical applications. Thus the curriculum expansion aims to bridge the gap between education and employability. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) is coordinating all skill development efforts across the country; it is helping, for instance, the Department of School Education and Literacy in implementing the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana 4.0.

As classrooms evolve into dynamic hubs of learning, students are presented with a diverse array of skill-building opportunities under such schemes. This proactive approach not only nurtures individual talents but also aligns education with the demands of a rapidly changing world. The implementation of the Skill India Programme at the school level marks a significant stride towards creating well-rounded, future-ready individuals who may join the workforce when they wish, as their employability and entrepreneurial abilities are enhanced.