Government, exploring skill-based learning for school students, will introduce skill as a subject from Class 6 onwards, while also considering ‘Skilling’ as a stream at Class 11 and 12 levels. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan made this announcement on 22 September 2025 at a summit held at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras. The move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommendation to shift from an examination-focused system to one emphasising practical skills, employability, and holistic learning.
Skill as Subject from Class 6
The government plans to integrate skill-based curriculum formally into school education starting in Class 6. Previously, skill education existed as supplementary or optional programs, but the new policy will make it a core subject, ensuring that students develop practical competencies alongside academic knowledge. According to Minister Pradhan:
- 30 per cent of students drop out by Class 12.
- Post-Class 12, students either join ITIs, skill centres, the workforce, or colleges.
- Early exposure to skill education aims to reduce dropout rates and improve employability.
‘Skilling’ as a Stream in Classes 11 and 12
Currently, Classes 11 and 12 offer three streams: Science, Humanities, and Commerce. The government is exploring adding Skilling as a fourth stream, providing students the option to specialise in skill-based learning. The focus will be on:
- Practical application and hands-on learning
- Enhancing employability skills
- Supporting career-oriented pathways after school education
This initiative is a significant step towards aligning school education with NEP 2020, which emphasises skill development and vocational education as essential components of formal schooling.
Objective and Expected Impact
The inclusion of skill-based subjects and streams aims to:
- Prepare students for real-world challenges by providing industry-relevant skills early
- Reduce student dropouts and facilitate smooth transitions to higher education, vocational training, or employment
- Foster a practical and competency-based learning environment from middle school onwards
The government will finalise the curriculum and implementation strategy for both Class 6 skill subject and Class 11–12 skilling stream in the coming months.
