Skill Based Curriculum Coming to Class 11 & 12: NEP 2020 Latest News
The government is planning to introduce skill-based learning into the curriculum for Classes 11 and 12, following recommendations from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras on Sunday.
Pradhan emphasized a crucial paradigm shift in learning methodology, stating that the earlier system focused largely on certificates and degrees, rather than making students truly competent and industry-ready.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed the importance of combining certification with real-world skills, marking a fundamental change in India’s approach to education.
Early Start: Skills from Class 6
In a groundbreaking move, the Ministry is working to introduce skill-based learning from as early as Class 6 onwards, expanding far beyond the initial Classes 11-12 framework.
Previously optional and selective, skill-based education will now become a formal part of the curriculum as a subject, marking a significant transformation in school education approach.
This comprehensive approach ensures students develop practical competencies alongside academic knowledge from their formative years, creating a more balanced educational foundation.
From Certificates to Competence
The reform represents a fundamental shift in educational philosophy, moving away from the traditional focus on certificates and degrees toward developing genuine competence.
Minister Pradhan emphasized that the earlier system focused largely on certificates and degrees, rather than making students truly competent for real-world challenges.
This holistic approach aims to ensure students are not only academically qualified but also equipped with practical skills to succeed in the modern workforce, aligning with PM Modi’s vision of combining certification with real-world capabilities.
Curriculum Integration Strategy
- The Ministry is actively working on designing and rolling out the new curriculum for senior secondary classes, with skill-based subjects expected to become an integral part of the education system soon.
- According to Minister Pradhan, one of the primary recommendations of NEP 2020 is the integration of skill-based education, marking this as a core priority rather than an add-on feature.
- The reform aligns with the government’s broader goal to make education more holistic, moving beyond rote learning and focusing on developing competencies relevant in real-world scenarios.
Breaking Traditional Barriers
One of the most significant aspects of NEP 2020 is its approach to removing the rigid separation between academic and vocational education.
Students will have the flexibility to switch between vocational and general education streams, ending the traditional stigma associated with vocational training.
This approach recognizes that different students have different learning preferences and career aspirations, providing multiple pathways to success.
Minister Pradhan emphasized that the government is “on the job to introduce skill-based curriculum” as a primary recommendation of NEP 2020, signaling serious commitment to this educational transformation.
Addressing Challenges
The government acknowledges the need for public awareness campaigns to de-stigmatize vocational education and change general attitudes toward skill-based learning.
Comprehensive awareness programs will be organized to showcase the value and career prospects of vocational education alongside traditional academic paths.
Key Highlights
- Announcement Venue: IIT Madras event by Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
- Starting Point: Classes 11-12, expanding to Class 6 onwards
- Curriculum Status: Formal subject (previously optional/selective)
- Philosophy Shift: From certificates/degrees to competence building
- Policy Alignment: Primary recommendation of NEP 2020
- PM’s Vision: Combining certification with real-world skills
- Focus: Moving beyond rote learning to practical competencies
- Timeline: Senior secondary curriculum rollout in progress
Expected Impact
This initiative is expected to bridge the gap between education and employment, creating a workforce that is ready for the challenges of the modern economy while maintaining academic excellence.
Last Updated on September 22, 2025
