New Delhi: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has launched a new vocational education activity book for Class 8, aimed at teaching students not only academic knowledge but also practical and technical skills. This initiative is in line with the New National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which emphasizes skill development along with knowledge.
This book guides students towards holistic development by connecting them with Indian culture, the environment, agricultural techniques, and technological innovations.
Students Will Acquire These Key Practical Skills
Through this new book, students will learn various project-based activities and hands-on skills, including:
- Woodwork and domestic appliance construction
- Setting up hydroponics (soil-less farming)
- Creating smart home automation circuits
- Animal care-related projects
- Designing sensor-based light and motion detectors
Through these activities, students will develop an understanding of science, technology, and the environment, which will be useful to them both in their school life and in the future.
'Skill Fair' to be Organized in Schools
NCERT's book also recommends organizing a Skill Fair, which will provide a platform for students at the school level to showcase their created projects and innovations.
Through this fair, students will be able to:
- Showcase their models and projects to others
- Share their experiences and ideas
- Learn soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership
Teachers will have to play the role of a guide in this, which will promote confidence and creativity in the students.
Emphasis on Media and Digital Literacy Too
This book also includes modern topics such as media literacy, gender sensitivity, and digital awareness:
- Basic understanding of the internet and electronics
- Creating posters, jingles, and social media reels
- Digital etiquette and identifying online content
With these topics, students will be able to develop 21st-century skills that will be helpful in both their education and career.
Engagement with Agriculture and Environmental Education
Through techniques like hydroponics and sustainable farming, students will be informed about modern agricultural systems and environmental sustainability. This will make them sensitive to nature and resources and adopt green thinking.
A Big Step Towards Holistic Development
NCERT's new vocational book is more than just a regular textbook. It not only helps students in their studies but also makes them practically, socially, and technically competent.
This initiative takes India's school education system towards global education standards, where children are not only given bookish knowledge but also practical experience and skill training.
