What is the story about?
The Indian education system has managed to produce millions of graduates every year. However, in reality, employers often complain that these graduates lack
the skills needed to thrive in the workplace. Observing the gap, the Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently announced that the Indian government is planning to introduce a skill-based curriculum for Classes 11 and 12 that seeks to close that gap. "We are on the job to introduce a skill-based curriculum for Class 11 and 12," he said at an event at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IITM). Teachers have termed this as a 'progressive step' that was long overdue. "It reflects the growing need to prepare students not only with academic knowledge but also with practical competencies that will serve them well in the real world. This move will make education more holistic and meaningful," Alka Kapur, Principal, Modern Public School Shalimar Bagh told Times Now Digital. Also Read | 'Our Parents Pay Your Salaries’: Educators Want More Than Just Flowers, They Want Respect While this announcement has garnered unanimous support approval from almost everyone, the tricky part of this rose-tinted idea lies is successful execution. The idea of incorporating a skills-based curriculum is nothing new, and has been debated upon several times in different manners within the Indian society. Yet beneath the optimism lies a sobering truth: its success will rest on execution, resources, and the courage to overhaul established habits.
Why is timing important
Indian classrooms have usually focused more on rote learning and exam focused teaching, rather than skill learning. However, as Artificial Intelligence (AI), data and sustainability take control of the digital economy, a report card alone isn't enough.
“Only 42.6% of Indian graduates are employable despite their degrees,” says Nikhil Barshikar, Founder and CEO of Imarticus Learning, citing a 2025 analysis. Employers are looking not just for the traditional degrees and gold medals on report cards, but also for practical skills, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, communication, and ethical decision-making.
This gap between what the current graduates are offering and what the employers demand can be bridged through the new approach and successful implementation of a skills-based curriculum. "By acquiring practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, learners will become more confident, adaptable, and prepared to handle diverse challenges in college as well as in the workplace," says Deepti Malhotra, Computer Science, PGT Teacher.
Industry experts also believe that introducing students to emerging domains like AI, sustainability, and digital tools during school years, education can stay aligned with future industry demands as employers are increasingly seeking a blend of technical, digital, finance, and soft skills to navigate the complexities of a technology-driven economy.
Experts believe that skills in artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and cybersecurity are among the fastest-growing competencies employers seek. Additionally, since digital literacy extends beyond basic computer skills, students must be proficient in using GenAI, data analysis, visualization, and the ethical application of technology. In addition to this, soft skills will also play a big part in selection of the ideal candidate. "Employers prioritize communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. The ability to collaborate effectively, accept feedback, and demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges are attributes that distinguish successful candidates," Barshikar explained.
Great idea, but where are the resources?
While the idea sounds good on the surface level, educators are also worried that the execution of this idea will pose its own set of challenges. Schools are worried that lack of infrastructure can pose a problem in successful implementation of this curriculum. "Many schools still don’t have the science and innovation labs, maker spaces, or digital tools needed to make skill-based learning truly meaningful," says Geeta Jayanth, Head of School at Chaman Bhartiya.
Also Read | AI in Indian Classrooms: A Helpful Assistant or a Hidden Risk?
Some experts also believe that while infrastructure related issues can be solved if given proper time and resources, what is worrying a lot of school authorities is the readiness of teachers, students and parents. India’s education system and the stakeholders involved with it have historically been resistant to change, and there is no surety that this new curriculum will be welcomed with the same optimism being shown by industry experts. "Although most teachers already include practical elements in their teaching, a professional skill-based framework might necessitate additional training," says Kapur.
Jayanth also echoes the fear that teacher readiness is another big obstacle. "If teachers aren’t trained and supported to guide and facilitate, the shift won’t have the impact it should. Approaches to teaching and assessments is another major concern. We can’t expect to measure creativity or problem-solving with the conservative models which focused on the old rote exams," she further explained.
From the industry side, the stakes are even higher. If poorly executed, the reform could perpetuate the very misalignment it seeks to correct. “Students may know definitions but struggle to build financial models or apply AI tools,” warns Barshikar. The cost is borne by both sides: students who waste years catching up, and companies forced to spend heavily on training.
There's also a fear of whether or not parents will be open to this change as many may perceive it as a shift away from academic and theoretical knowledge -- something that has been the USP of the Indian education system. "My daughter went to a school in Rohini that focused on academics. In fact, many people suggested me that school simply because that school used to produce toppers. If such parents will be told that their child will now be taking communication classes once a week, I am sure these parents would suggest replacing that class with a Math doubt class," laughs a parent from Delhi.
However, Kapur believes that "once parents and students realize the advantages of enhanced employability, self-confidence, and real-world preparedness, the response is likely to be positive and encouraging."
What's the solution?
The solution for this problem lies in the very skills that the educators and employers want students to learn through the new curriculum -- teamwork, communication, and adaptability. Stakeholders believe that the implementation of this curriculum can be a hit if the Indian government and schools successfully collaborate with industry experts for training.
"The industry is increasingly open to collaborating with schools and educational institutions in designing and supporting skill-based programsme. This openness stems from the growing recognition that bridging the gap between education and employability requires a concerted effort from both industry and academia," said Nikhil.
Even students believe that internships, apprenticeships, and industry exposure are pivotal in transforming a theoretical, classroom-based curriculum into a practical, career-ready experience. "I have completed 11 years of schooling but I have zero real-life experience of how to implement the things that I am learning in school. I am a Commerce student who would not be able to calculate balance in a real-life fast food restaurant because I might crash under the pressure of time. I think this is why internships and part-time jobs are so important and compulsory in the West. If our education system adds a little more industry and real-life exposure to the new curriculum then I am sure that not only will students fare better in jobs, but they will also enjoy their schooling much more," said Krishank, a class 11 student from Delhi.
Stakeholders believe that the plan to introduce a skill-based curriculum at the senior secondary level is essential, irrespective of whether or not it is welcomed by the stakeholders. However, the stakes are higher. Done well, it can turn schools into incubators of innovation, better align graduates with industry, and give India’s youth a fighting edge in a rapidly evolving economy. But if poorly executed, it risks becoming yet another reform that looks good on paper while leaving students unprepared for the real world.
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