Setting up of ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in CBSE schools

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a circular mandating the establishment of "Composite Skill Labs" in all affiliated schools. This initiative aims to strengthen Skill Education in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE).

Here's a summary of the key points:

• Focus on Skill Development: The NEP 2020 and NCF-SE prioritize skill development alongside traditional academics, preparing students for real-world applications and diverse career paths.

• Mandatory Skill Subjects: NCF-SE makes skill subjects compulsory from Class VI onwards.

• Composite Skill Labs: These labs will provide dedicated spaces and resources for hands-on learning and skill development. Schools can choose to have one large lab or two smaller labs for different grade levels.

• Well-equipped Labs: Labs must have the necessary equipment and machinery for effective training.

• Implementation Timeline: New schools must have these labs from the outset, while existing schools have three years to comply.

• Curriculum Support: CBSE will provide detailed guidelines and resources for teaching skill subjects.

• Expanding Skill Subject Choices: Schools are encouraged to offer a wider range of skill subjects to cater to diverse student interests.

This initiative reflects CBSE's commitment to providing holistic education that equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enhancing their employability and future prospects.