Union Minister Highlights Shift Towards Career-Oriented Subjects in School Curriculum

India to Introduce Vocational Education from Class 6 Under NEP 2025 Framework

Skill-based learning is crucial as it helps students to gain practical abilities that prepare them for real-life situations and future goals. It is not just an addition to education but it's a transformation which makes students knowledgeable but also capable, adaptable and ready for global competitions. In a move aimed at reshaping the senior secondary education, the Government of India is planning to integrate skill-based learning into their mainstream academic curriculum. This initiative, following the New Education Policy 2025, reflects a growing emphasis on practical knowledge, future-ready skills and career-oriented subjects for students in classes 11 and 12.

During an event at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan further said that there would also be a paradigm shift in teaching style in order to allow students to gear themselves for practical situations of life. But the minister clarified that the education sector has long been focused on degrees and certificates, often ignoring the importance of practical skills. The minister cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stance, in which, while degrees do count, students also have to have skills of value. This has led to the government's attempt to introduce topics in secondary schools to allow students to gain skills for the future, especially in the last years of high school.

Mr Pradhan explained one of the notable recommendations of the  National Education Policy as supporting skill development at the school level. He further stated that initially, CBSE skill streams were not obligatory, but from here onwards, they would be included as part of the mandatory study in the curriculum. This initiative would have an encouraging effect on practical studies in senior secondary education and would also aid in broader education reforms across India.

In addition, the Ministry also plans to bring in vocational studies in India at the Class 6 level. It will allow students to acquire practical skills at an early level. The minister made it clear that this step would not only provide easier access to jobs for students but also cultivate new ideas and flexibility in young students. The government would like to integrate skill-based courses in mainstream studies. This helps to better educate people and to better prepare students for life after school, not solely for tests. This proposal indicates there is a better realisation that one needs to do well in school and in life outside of school. Schools have to adapt to keep pace with society and labour demands.

Editor’s Note:

The Government of India's fresh focus on embracing a skill-based curriculum in the senior secondary education system is a significant and timely change in the national priorities of education. As outlined by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at the Dakshinapatha Summit 2025 in IIT Madras, the initiative, with the drive of the New Education Policy 2025, aims to move away from traditional, certificate-type learning and embrace a vocation-oriented, career-based approach. And importantly, the reform is not limited to the Class 12 curriculum and Class 11 syllabus alone. The Ministry is also considering introducing vocational education in India from Class 6 and thereby injecting skill development into schools at an early stage. This move reflects a deeper awareness that education must keep pace with the changing needs of society, industry, and the global economy. The minister's statement brings home a growing realisation that while formal academic qualification remains the keystone, this has to be complemented by functional competence. Inclusion of CBSE skill subjects as an official and mandatory component of the curriculum is bound to provide a boost to practical learning in senior secondary school education and assist in developing more holistic education reforms in India. Moreover, this reform aligns with the country's general vision of preparing students to confront emerging skills, developing flexibility, and encouraging innovation. With the incorporation of career-oriented issues in schools, the government aims to create a balanced and effective learning environment, one that prepares students not only for tests but for productive participation in an open, competitive global economy.

Skoobuzz views the proposed modifications as a revolutionary step towards a more expansive and vibrant education system. They echo the need to connect scholastic education to actual application, and they have the capability of making students competent, confident, and world-ready individuals.

FAQs

1. What is the new skill-focused curriculum for Class 11 and 12? 
The new skill-focused curriculum for Class 11 and 12 aims to include practical and career-oriented subjects alongside traditional academic studies. It encourages students to develop hands-on abilities, problem-solving skills, and real-world knowledge. This curriculum is designed to prepare learners for future jobs, entrepreneurship, and higher education with a strong foundation in applied learning.

2. How will the new education policy affect senior secondary students? 
The New Education Policy will bring a major shift in how senior secondary students learn. It promotes flexibility in subject choices, allowing students to combine academic and skill-based subjects. It also focuses on critical thinking, creativity, and practical knowledge. As a result, students will be better equipped to face real-life challenges and explore diverse career paths after school.

3. What skill subjects are available in Class 11 and 12? 
Students in Class 11 and 12 can choose from a wide range of skill subjects, such as Information Technology, Financial Literacy, Retail, Healthcare, Media, Tourism, Agriculture, and Artificial Intelligence. These subjects are designed to give students basic industry knowledge and practical experience, helping them build useful skills for future employment or further studies.

4. How is skill development integrated into the CBSE curriculum? 
Skill development is now a formal part of the CBSE curriculum. Earlier, skill subjects were optional, but they are now being treated as core learning areas. CBSE schools offer structured modules, practical assessments, and project-based learning to help students gain real-world experience. These subjects are assessed like other academic subjects and contribute to overall performance.

5. Why is skill-based learning important for students? 
Skill-based learning is important because it helps students become capable, confident, and job-ready. It goes beyond memorising facts and encourages learners to apply knowledge in practical situations. This type of learning improves problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills. It also prepares students for future careers, supports innovation, and makes education more meaningful and relevant to everyday life.