CBSE mandates Schools to set up Composite Skill Labs under NEP 2020 Guidelines

These guidelines advocate for the inclusion of skill subjects as a mandatory part of the curriculum from class VI onwards, highlighting the importance of practical skills alongside traditional academic subjects.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) have placed a strong emphasis on integrating skill education into the school curriculum, particularly for students in classes VI to X. These guidelines advocate for the inclusion of skill subjects as a mandatory part of the curriculum from class VI onwards, highlighting the importance of practical skills alongside traditional academic subjects.

Need for Enhanced Facilities

The NCF-SE stresses that schools should offer opportunities for students to engage in real-world tasks and projects related to their chosen skills. This approach aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. However, it has been observed that many schools currently lack the facilities and equipment necessary for effective hands-on training.

Establishment of Composite Skill Labs

In response to these concerns, the 139th meeting of the Governing Body of the Board has mandated the establishment of ‘Composite Skill Labs’ in all affiliated schools. These labs will be equipped with the necessary machinery and equipment to support the effective implementation of NEP and NCF-SE recommendations. The introduction of Composite Skill Labs is expected to:

- Provide training in practical skills aligned with industry needs.

- Enhance employment prospects for students in various trades and vocations.

- Enable exploration of diverse career pathways beyond traditional options.

- Foster entrepreneurial capabilities among students.

Guidelines for Lab Setup

Schools are advised to set up either one Composite Skill Lab of 600 sq. ft. for classes VI–XII or two separate labs of 400 sq. ft. each—one for classes VI–X and another for classes XI–XII.

Implementation Timeline

- New Affiliations: Schools seeking fresh affiliation with CBSE must establish a Composite Skill Lab with all necessary equipment and machinery as a mandatory requirement.

- Existing Affiliations: Schools already affiliated with CBSE are required to set up the Composite Skill Lab within three years from the date of this circular.

Additional details regarding the setup of these labs, including necessary materials for teaching various skill subjects, will be provided in the curriculum guidelines available on the CBSE website shortly.

Expanding Skill Subject Offerings

Schools currently offering skill subjects are encouraged to expand their offerings to provide more choices for students. Schools not yet offering skill subjects are advised to introduce at least one skill subject to their curriculum.

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