The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a significant shift in India’s education landscape by placing a pronounced focus on vocational education and skill development. Recognizing the vital integration of vocational learning with general education, the policy underscores the importance of mainstreaming vocational education to achieve its multifaceted objectives.
To align with the goals of the NEP, the existing Samagra Shiksha scheme has undergone a comprehensive overhaul. This transformation involves various new measures supporting vocational education, such as internships, bagless days, and introducing vocational education exposure at the Upper Primary level.
The Pandit Sunderlal Sharma Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE) in Bhopal assumes a pivotal role as the principal coordinating agency. It conducts extensive training programs aimed at equipping vocational teachers and trainers. Collaborating with states, union territories (UTs), Sector Skill Councils, State Councils of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), and other stakeholders, PSSCIVE orchestrates a 10-day induction training program for newly appointed vocational teachers and skill trainers. Moreover, regular training sessions cover aspects related to NEP 2020, vocational pedagogy, employability skills, and emerging technologies, ensuring continuous professional development for in-service vocational teachers.
Under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme, states and UTs receive non-recurring grants for procuring tools, equipment, and essential infrastructure like furniture and computers, fostering an environment conducive to vocational education within schools.
This revamped scheme allows states and UTs to select from 88 Job Roles in 22 sectors compliant with the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) based on their individual Skill Gap Analysis. Additionally, the National Curriculum Framework for School Education empowers schools and districts to choose vocational streams thoughtfully, considering aspirational vocations, local relevance, and emerging industries.
Minister of State for Education, Smt. Annpurna Devi, disclosed this comprehensive strategy in a written response during a session of the Rajya Sabha, emphasizing the government’s commitment to reshaping the education landscape and fostering skill development aligned with the changing dynamics of the workforce.