Education in today’s world is multi-dimensional and has gone beyond the traditional one-way-fits-all approach to imparting education and setting up a student for success. Skills hold a lot more relevance for success in today’s career trajectory. With the advent of digital education and the transition to online platforms, acquiring career-relevant skills has become more accessible and customizable as per one’s convenience and preference. 

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has recognized the importance of development of skills in students and has prescribed vocational education be imparted to students to allow them to explore their interests and pursue a career they are interested in. Vocational education includes courses and training which impart practical, hands-on knowledge about various skill-based occupations and trades. Despite being prevalent since late 20th century, it never gained mass popularity in India due to various preconceived notions about its effectiveness in career growth. 

However, the evolving landscape of careers and job market calls for a change in perspective about the way vocational education is perceived. Embracing hands-on skills not only allows students to delve into their passions but also encourages out-of-box thinking, irrespective of their age or background. It inculcates a sense of lifelong learning and equips individuals with a diverse skill set, strengthening their competitiveness in the job market.

Vocational education may be the answer to India’s high unemployment rate by drawing a parallel between theoretical understanding and hands-on training. With industries increasingly seeking individuals with both academic proficiency and hands-on expertise, vocational education may serve as a bridge linking classroom learning with real-world exposure. By nurturing a workforce equipped with both intellectual understanding and practical skills, vocational education may project an individual towards success and career growth while also contributing to overall economic growth and development.

At Turn the Bus, we understand the benefits and advantages of imparting vocational education. Whether an individual has left formal education or is currently enrolled, our livelihood program and career readiness courses developed in partnership with UdayanCare are designed to propel participants towards a prosperous future career path. Through courses like Entrepreneurship, ITI preparation, and Solar Enterprise, we empower students with practical skills that extend beyond traditional academic teaching in an attempt to enrich their educational and subsequently, their professional journey.  It is time we see vocational education as a necessity rather than an addition, taking a holistic approach towards addressing income inequality.