New middle school level framework of skill education under NEP 2020

CBSE’s Kaushal Bodh, also known as the Skill Education Framework for 2025-26, makes skill education a must for students in grades 6 to 8. It sets aside 110 hours or 160 periods of 40 minutes each year for project-based pre-vocational learning. This framework requires middle school students to complete nine hands-on projects over three years (three projects each year) in three areas, namely Life Forms, Machines & Materials, and Human Services. The focus is on practical skills, creativity, and sustainability.

Schools have been proposed a schedule that includes two consecutive periods twice a week for skill education. This way, students can systematically work on projects and practical activities. Each student needs to finish three projects per grade, with one project from each domain. Schools will also carry out continuous evaluations through project portfolios, journals, and a final event called the "Kaushal Mela" (skill fair) to display their work. Theory lessons will be taught for 10 hours or 15 class sessions.

The program uses special Kaushal Bodh activity books that emphasize hands-on learning and aim to bridge the gap between what students learn in school and how they can apply it in real-life jobs.

Four key Objectives of Kaushal Bodh curriculum

1.       Pre-vocational Exposure: Developing vocational knowledge and skills in early middle school.

2.       Core Competencies: Fostering creativity, critical thinking, teamwork, and digital skills.

3.       Value Education: Building, environmental, gender, and social sensitivity.

4.       Practical Life Skills: Enhancing ability to manage everyday tasks and tools.

Projects are categorized into three domains and 4-6 work-areas

Work with Life Forms:

1.       Gardening,

2.       animal husbandry,

3.       composting,

4.       ecology.

Work with Materials & Machines:

1.       Woodwork,

2.       pottery,

3.       electrical repairs,

4.       basic coding,

5.       AI,

Work with Human Services:

1.       First-aid,

2.       hospitality,

3.       community service,

4.       financial literacy.