Chandigarh: UT senior secondary schools to offer skill education from 2026-27 academic session

Chandigarh’s UT senior secondary schools will start skill education in 2026‑27, adding 1,755 vocational seats and raising intake from 13,875 to 13,920. The Union Territory education department announced that, beginning with the 2026‑27 academic session, senior secondary schools across the city will introduce skill education courses. As part of the reform, 1,755 vocational seats will be reallocated across the science, commerce and humanities streams, ensuring that the new offerings fit within the existing school infrastructure. The overall Class 12 intake will increase by 45 seats, moving from 13,875 to 13,920, providing students with additional pathways to choose from. The department said the move is aimed at expanding academic options and better aligning school curricula with emerging industry demands. No changes have been made to the total number of available seats; the redistribution simply reshapes the distribution of seats to accommodate the new courses. The initiative follows a review of the senior secondary curriculum that was conducted earlier this year, which highlighted the need for more varied learning opportunities beyond traditional academic streams. School managements have been asked to prepare the necessary facilities and staffing arrangements well before the 2026‑27 session begins. The education department will monitor implementation and make adjustments as required to ensure a smooth rollout. Officials emphasized that the expansion of skill education aligns with the broader goal of improving employability and reducing the gap between academic training and market requirements. The change is expected to be reflected in school admission lists, with the additional 45 seats being allocated to the respective streams based on demand and space availability. Administrators noted that the reallocation will not affect the existing academic schedule, and regular classes will continue alongside the new skill courses. The department has also indicated that it will coordinate with industry partners to identify relevant skill modules and provide guidance on certification standards. While the exact list of skill subjects has not yet been finalized, the department plans to consult with experts to determine which areas will be most beneficial for students. The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about educational reforms in the Union Territory, with stakeholders expressing cautious optimism about the potential benefits of a more diversified curriculum. As the 2026‑27 academic session approaches, schools will undergo preparatory steps, including teacher training and infrastructure upgrades, to support the new program. The education department has assured that the transition will be handled systematically, with timelines and checkpoints established to track progress. Stakeholders, including parents and teachers, have been invited to participate in upcoming forums to voice their concerns and suggestions regarding the rollout. The department reiterated its commitment to delivering a balanced education that prepares students for both higher studies and the workforce. With the new skill education component, Chandigarh joins a growing number of regions in India that are integrating vocational training into secondary schooling. The move is likely to influence future policy decisions and may serve as a model for other Union Territories.

Source: Hindustan Times