New Guidelines Mandate 10 Vocational Periods for Grades 6 to 8 under ‘Bagless Day’ Initiative
Pune, 30th July 2024: The Ministry of Education has announced new guidelines for schools, implementing a ‘Bagless Day’ initiative for students in grades 6 to 8, by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The Pandit Sundarlal Sharma Vocational Education Institute (PSSCIVE) of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) in Bhopal has prepared these guidelines, aiming to make learning more enjoyable and practical. Starting this academic year, schools will incorporate 10 vocational periods each month into their curriculum.
Released on 29th July, the directives require all schools across the country to offer these 10 ‘Bagless Day’ periods. During these sessions, students will engage in vocational training such as carpentry, electrical work, metal work, gardening, and pottery making. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and practical skills, making education more interactive and less stressful.
The guidelines emphasize that the vocational training will help students understand essential skills for various professions, potentially guiding them in their future career choices. “This initiative will reduce the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application, while also providing students with valuable skills for different professions,” the guidelines state.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Education has introduced the concept of internships for students during these ‘Bagless Day’ periods. Students will have the chance to learn from professionals in various crafts, turning these sessions into practical internship experiences.
The directives allow schools flexibility in incorporating these periods into their annual academic program. Schools are required to include two or three ‘Bagless Day’ slots in their calendar and may also integrate outdoor activities as needed. Teachers preparing the academic program must ensure these periods are included effectively.
