TRANSFORMING INDIA’S EDUCATION: SKILL-BASED LEARNING UNDER NEP 2020

This article explores the shift toward skill-based education in India under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, addressing the critical need for practical skills to combat unemployment and enhance employability. It evaluates the current landscape, highlighting government efforts like the Skill India Mission and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), which have trained millions but face issues such as inconsistent quality and limited rural access. The future vision of NEP 2020 emphasizes vocational education integration, experiential learning, and industry-academia partnerships to foster innovation and lifelong learning. Implementation challenges, including societal biases against vocational training, infrastructure gaps, and inadequate teacher training, are analyzed. Proposed strategies focus on curriculum reform, public-private partnerships, and equitable access to ensure inclusivity. The article concludes that effective execution of NEP 2020 could position India as a global leader in skill-based education, driving economic growth and social development.