Giving students the skills they need for 2025 through NIOS and vocational education — the way professional education is taught in India’s open schools is undergoing a major transformation to align with NEP 2020. Through strategic partnerships and evolving structures, the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) equips students with real-world skills that go beyond traditional academics.
1. A Huge Rise in Vocational Courses — Delhi Leads the Way
During the 2024–25 academic year, more than 4.2 lakh students from Delhi government schools participated in vocational training programmes while in Class XII. This was announced by Education Minister Ashish Sood during a professional placement drive at Sarvodaya Vidyalaya, Rohini. Over 30 leading companies took part, offering job opportunities to students — a significant step towards integrating skill-based training into mainstream schooling. (Source: The Indian Times)
2. NIOS Partnership with Madhya Pradesh Expands Job Opportunities
In collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh State Open School Education Board (MPPSOSEB), NIOS is offering technical education in 2,500 government schools across the state. This initiative includes job-oriented technical training in local languages, in line with NEP 2020’s mission of making education practical, inclusive, and accessible. (Source: The Review of Higher Education)
3. Flexible Admission and Exam Schedules for Vocational Courses
According to NIOS notifications, the last date for enrolling in Vocational Courses (Block 1, 2025) has been extended to August 17, 2025. This extension gives students more time to explore their options and register. Additionally, exam dates for vocational programmes (both theory and practical) for the April–May 2025 session have been released, ensuring students have enough preparation time. For details, visit rckochi.nios.ac.in.
Why This Matters
- Delhi’s success shows that skill-based learning is becoming an accepted part of regular schooling.
- The MP–NIOS partnership establishes formal pathways for employment in regional languages.
- Flexible scheduling removes barriers and supports effective learning.
These developments show that NIOS is evolving from a traditional academic board into a dynamic platform that blends vocational education with openness, relevance, and accessibility.
In short, NIOS is leading a vocational revolution by integrating skill training into regular schooling — exactly what NEP 2020 envisioned. From record-breaking enrolment in Delhi to a state-wide rollout in Madhya Pradesh, along with improved administrative support, NIOS is proving to be an essential tool for preparing students for the future.
