Gujarat board to introduce vocational education in private schools from new academic year

Ahmedabad: The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) took an important decision to introduce vocational education in private schools across the state from the academic year 2026–27 on a self-financed basis. The move was taken in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to integrate skill-based learning into the mainstream education system. The board identified 16 vocational sectors, including agriculture, information technology, and healthcare. It also issued guidelines regarding laboratory set-up and the appointment of vocational trainers. Interested schools were asked to complete the nomination process and submit the required list by April 20.According to available information, the NEP aims to connect students with vocational skills at an early stage. At present, the scheme is mainly implemented in govt and grant-in-aid schools, but the board is now planning to extend it to around 5,700 private schools across the state. As per the guidelines issued by the board, schools offering vocational subjects must establish a separate laboratory on campus. The laboratory must have adequate space and facilities to accommodate at least 20 students at a time.Schools will also be required to appoint qualified vocational trainers, and their remuneration will be paid by the school management. In terms of curriculum structure, vocational subjects will be offered as an alternative to the third language in Class 10 and as a main subject in Classes 11 and 12. To provide practical exposure, students will be required to undertake three field visits each year, while an 80-hour internship is compulsory at the higher secondary level.Under the evaluation system, the total 100 marks will include 30 marks for theory, 50 marks for practical exams, and 20 marks for internal assessment. Approval for starting vocational courses will be granted at the district education officer (DEO) level, and only schools meeting the required criteria will receive permission.