Setting up Of ‘Composite Skill Labs’ In Schools Is Mandatory: CBSE

The CBSE has asked all schools affiliated with the Board to mandatorily establish a ‘Composite Skill Lab’ to effectively implement the recommendation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE). The decision came in to support the skilling among students, especially from class 6th onwards.

As per the CBSE circular the establishment of a ‘Composite Lab’ will help in providing training on practical skills aligned with industrial needs, improve employability among students diversify their career pathways beyond the traditional options, and foster entrepreneurial capabilities among students.

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

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CBSE has also issued a timeline for schools to set up the skill labs on its premises. Schools that are already affiliated with CBSE must establish a Composite Skill Lab with all necessary equipments and machinery with in a period of 3 years and for those who are seeking fresh affiliation musht have necessary equipments and machinery.

The central board will issue guidelines regarding the setup of these labs, including necessary materials for teaching various skill subjects. Additionally, schools that are already offering Skill will need to offer more choices to students by offering more skill subjects to the students.

Notably NCF-SE has advocated the inclusion of skill subjects as an integral part of the curriculum by including it as a mandatory subject of study from class VI onwards. It stresses the importance of equipping students with
practical skills alongside traditional academic subjects. The National Curriculum Framework has advocated the establishment of well-equipped skill labs and vocational training centers within schools. These facilities are crucial for providing the necessary resources and environment for effective skill development and practical, hands-on learning experiences.