UP Board Mandates Vocational Education in Classes 9 and 11 from 2026
The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad has taken a significant step. Starting from the academic session of 2026, vocational education will become compulsory for students in Classes 9 and 11. This decision aims to create a stronger link between school education and future employment opportunities.
Approved Curricula for Key Trades
UP Board Secretary Bhagwati Singh provided details on the new initiative. Subject committees have already approved and submitted specific curricula for several vocational trades. These include important fields like information technology and its allied areas. Other approved trades cover electronics, apparel, and the beauty and wellness sector.
Singh explained that expert committees developed these employment-focused curricula. They held multiple rounds of meetings to finalize the content. Additional Secretary Satyendra Kumar Singh and Skand Shukla provided guidance throughout this development process.
Focus on Skills and Employability
The newly approved curricula have a clear purpose. They focus on current technological needs and industry expectations. A primary goal is to enhance the employability of students after they complete their schooling.
Practical and skill-based content forms the core of these courses. Job-oriented material has been incorporated to ensure students gain relevant competencies. This approach moves beyond traditional theoretical learning.
Alignment with National Policy and Future Plans
This initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the National Education Policy. It seeks to promote skill development and vocational proficiency among young learners. Fostering self-reliance is another key aim of the program.
Officials describe it as a meaningful step. It connects school education directly with the world of work. The program will impart practical knowledge to students, preparing them to meet future challenges in the job market.
Work on developing curricula for additional vocational trades is currently in progress. The board plans to expand the range of options available to students in the coming years.
Collaborative Effort in Course Preparation
The Central Institute of Vocational Education in Bhopal provided crucial support. Their expertise helped in preparing the structured courses for implementation.
Several subject experts contributed their knowledge to this important process. The contributing team included Sanjeev Kumar Arya, Virendra Nath Shukla, Dr. Aditi Goswami, Dr. Dilip Singh, and Dr. Avinash Pandey. Their collective effort ensured the curricula meet high educational standards.
