The implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has begun at the primary and upper primary levels in Goa, but the new study methodology and textbooks for Classes IX to XII will be introduced at a later stage. Official sources confirmed that while certain components, such as the ten-subject system with school assessments, have been introduced in Classes IX and X, their implementation for Class XI has been deferred for now.
Reasons for Deferment
According to an official, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has yet to release NEP-aligned textbooks for Class XI. Additionally, NEP mandates a more multidisciplinary approach, eliminating the strict division between streams like arts, commerce, science, and vocational education. Once fully implemented, students should have the flexibility to choose interdisciplinary subjects. For instance, a commerce student should be able to study an arts subject if desired.
Challenges in Goa's Higher Secondary Schools
In Goa, officials are deliberating on how to implement this policy in higher secondary schools that currently offer only specific streams. If a school does not offer arts, for example, a student wishing to pursue an arts subject must have access to it once implementation begins. Discussions are underway to explore solutions, such as clustering neighboring schools to enable a multidisciplinary approach through shared teachers.
Skill-Based Learning Integration
Under NEP, India aims to integrate skill-based learning into the curriculum for Classes XI and XII. This marks a shift from the traditional certificate and degree-focused education system to one emphasizing practical competence, critical thinking, and employable skills. Core skill subjects under consideration by the Union education ministry include coding, computer language writing, artificial intelligence, drone technology, and advanced mathematics, alongside traditional disciplines like languages and sciences.
NCERT's Implementation Plan
NCERT has issued an advisory outlining the phased implementation of revised textbooks and course content in schools as per NEP. Based on the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, the advisory recommends introducing changes for secondary and senior secondary levels in stages. Students in Classes X and XI will continue with existing textbooks during the 2026–27 academic session, with revised textbooks rolling out from the 2027–28 academic year.
Goa will need to review these textbooks for local contextualization before implementation.
