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Importance of vocational education, training for preparing students for future

The coming future will not be related to a single-dimensional career. Considering the technological developments and dynamic changes, future career options will depend upon skills, besides domain knowledge. Therefore, in this era of new-age education, vocational education and training is the launch pad to the future.

As per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, vocational education is crucial for ensuring robust future careers. The policy bats for integrating and mainstreaming vocational education with general education, as this approach will support and encourage young learners to not just acquire and polish skills related to domains of their choice, but will also provide industry-ready skills in huge demand.

This kind of education is also significant in shaping India’s education system by making it more solid and improving its overall quality.

As the dynamics of the world are changing quickly, students pursuing only traditional education can no longer excel in their career path. This is where vocational education plays a role.

Some of the advantages of vocational education are:

Hands-on experience: There’s always a huge difference between theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that allows room for failure, learning from mistakes, collaboration, and understanding how the industry works. Thus, vocational education scores high on this parameter as compared to conventional education systems that rely more on theory and less on practical knowledge. It also prepares students for future workplaces and teaches dynamics.

Key skills: Vocational education provides a hands-on learning experience for students, which is very helpful in moulding their careers as it not only sharpens the technical abilities of students but also fosters essential workplace skills such as critical thinking and analytical skills, collaboration, risk-taking, risk management, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.

Forever relevant skills: Typically, a lot of thought goes into crafting vocational courses as they must be prepared in alignment with what the industry demands. Based on the input of employers and industry experts, the vocational skill courses should be designed on the emerging trends, technology, and skill requirements.

Make students employable: Besides providing immediate employment opportunities, vocational education also offers students the flexibility to adapt to evolving industries and market trends, making it easier for employers to choose them.

Career Clarity: Vocational education catalyses a host of other skills which are in high demand. These skills include opportunities to be self-employed, an entrepreneurial spirit, and the ability to follow the latest market trends and adapt accordingly.

The gap between education and employment can easily be erased with vocational training that not only provides skilled learning but also constant opportunities for students to upskill and become learners forever.

With the ever-evolving job market and continuous changes in skill demands, vocational education can play a huge role in changing the dynamics of the whole scenario. Hands-on learning is at the core of vocational education and instills students with fundamental job skills. By addressing the changing pace of the industry and demand for skills, vocational education can amend how we learn and train.

Source: India Today


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