CBSE Makes Skill Education Mandatory for Classes 6–8 Under New Curriculum

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has brought a significant shift to the middle school curriculum by making skill education a compulsory subject for classes 6 to 8. The board aims to move students beyond textbook-based study and memorisation, giving them space to learn skills that relate to everyday life. Skill-focused learning is being placed directly within regular schooling. This decision is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Starting this academic year, CBSE has required all affiliated schools to adopt the Skill Bodh book series prepared by NCERT. These books are available in print as well as digital editions to ensure smooth access for both schools and students.

The new series asks students to work on projects in three broad areas:

Working with living beings – tasks such as tending to plants and animals
Working with machines and materials – basic operational and mechanical work
Human services – activities involving community help and service
Students will take up three projects every academic year, adding up to nine projects across three years. The programme includes nearly 270 hours of hands-on learning. The intention is to make students understand that learning is shaped not just by study material but by practical experience and the process of doing. For this purpose, CBSE has directed schools to modify their timetables. Around 110 hours (close to 160 periods) will be set aside for skill education each year. Schools must provide at least two back-to-back periods every week for this subject. From the six projects listed in the books, schools may choose three depending on local needs and available resources.

Role of Teachers

Teachers will be central to leading students through project-based work. CBSE, NCERT, and PSSIVE will hold broad training sessions to prepare teachers for this role. Teachers themselves will have to develop new skills so they can guide students effectively. Assessment System
The method of evaluating skill education will not follow the usual examination pattern:

1. Written exam – 10%
2. Viva/Presentation – 30%
3. Activity book – 30%
4. Portfolio – 10%
5. Teacher observation – 20%
   This detailed structure is meant to make learning more practical, engaging, and relevant, helping students develop abilities they can apply beyond academic lessons.