Enhancing SDG-4 Outcomes through Vocational Education in Sikkim

Abstract: The situation in the Indian state of Sikkim illustrates the changes in the practices and policies of vocational and technical education due to the fourth sustainable development goal (SDG4) which focuses on education in all its forms and dimensions. Through the utilization of secondary data, government documentation, and regional reports from NITI Aayog, this research aims to explore the influence of vocational policies and the NEP 2020 on the evolving education landscape of Sikkim. This research attempts to develop a hypothesis which requires that investments into skill development at different stages in the education paradigm increases the qualitative and quantitative standards of employment, thus shifting the norm from traditional to self-employment. This research targets the transformation in Sikkim’s institutions, its youth, and its governance in pursuit of fulfilling SDG 4 through education and skill training. Preliminary data illustrates the use of NSQF modules and ‘bagless days’ that are integrated into primary education, livelihood schools, and skill-based work exposure, which are aimed at raising the certification, employment and entrepreneurship levels in NEP 2020, PMKVY, Atmanirbhar Bharat.