“I would revolutionize college education and relate it to national necessities. There would be degrees for mechanical and other engineers. They would be attached to the different industries which should pay for the training of the graduates they need” – M. K. Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi once envisioned a revolution in education, connecting vocational skills with mainstream learning. Today, his foresight remains relevant as the rising unemployment rate, where the latest data available from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) has indicated 44% youth unemployment in the last quarter of 2023.
The rising tide of unemployment has cast a shadow over the confidence of students seeking viable employment post-education. This unsettling trend compels young individuals to abandon their education in pursuit of supporting their families amidst economic hardships. Parents, too, find themselves preferring dropout scenarios for their children, viewing it as a practical means of contributing to family finances.
In the dynamic landscape of India’s economic and technological advancements, the necessity of vocational education has emerged as a critical component for addressing challenges associated with unemployment, skill development, and socio-economic inequality. Despite the nation’s projected economic growth of 7.3 percent in the current fiscal year, the disconcerting reality is reflected in India’s 123rd rank out of 161 nations in the global inequality index. This ranking underscores poor performance in health expenditure and minimum wage standards.
While India revels in breakthroughs within indigenous defense and space technology, a stark contrast is evident in educational metrics. High dropout rates persist, particularly in states like Bihar, Gujarat, and Assam, surpassing the national average of 12.6% at the secondary level. Additionally, youth unemployment, notably in the 20-24 age group, stands at a staggering 44.49%, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to skill development.
This article delves into the critical role of vocational education in India, shedding light on the hurdles it faces and emphasizing the pivotal role Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can play in shaping a robust and inclusive vocational training ecosystem, crucial for the nation’s holistic development.
As the 4th Industrial Revolution reshapes the job market and skill requirements, technological evolution, particularly in automation, brings forth significant challenges. A McKinsey report suggests that up to 375 million workers may need to change their occupational category by 2030, with digital work contributing $2.7 trillion to global GDP by 2025. In this evolving landscape, the need for well-performing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) becomes paramount.
A joint study by the World Bank, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and UNESCO underscores the importance of TVET in ensuring smooth job transitions amidst rapidly changing labor markets. The report emphasizes that when TVET functions well, graduates possess the right skills for today’s jobs while being prepared to adapt to future skill needs. The impact of formal vocational training is evident in a 4.7% increase in wages in the overall economy, rising to 36.9% in the primary sector and 17.6% in the secondary sector.
Global examples, particularly Germany’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) system, emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to vocational education. Germany’s success in reducing youth unemployment to 7.1% in 2013 is attributed to practical training, collaboration between government, businesses, and schools, and standardized national qualifications.
Historically, initiatives like Wood’s Despatch of 1854 and committees like the Indian Education Commission (1882), the Hartog Review Committee (1929), and the Sapru Enquiry Committee (1934) highlighted the vital role of vocational education in India’s economic development. In 2020, the National Education Policy (NEP) sought to revive vocational education, aiming for universal access to quality holistic education, including vocational training, from preschool to Grade 12.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist in the implementation of vocational education programs. The lack of uniformity among states in embracing NEP changes complicates implementation, and the unequal distribution of CSR funds hampers the potential of smaller entities. This article emphasizes the imperative for a nuanced, inclusive, and locally aware approach to policy implementation, ensuring that the transformative vision of NEP resonates deeply with the diverse needs of the student community.
CSR funding emerges as a crucial catalyst for change, yet the current scenario sees larger organizations favored, sidelining the potential of smaller, locally attuned entities. Bridging the gap between academic and vocational education requires targeting both large and small vocational training programs. Small players, with their intimate understanding of local environments, can play a pivotal role in promoting vocational education.
The focus should extend beyond quantitative targets, considering the unique perspectives of smaller entities. Providing quality skills requires a different approach to monitoring and improvement. Teacher training and selection must prioritize individuals with a passionate and entrepreneurial mindset to improve the delivery of vocational skills.
In this approach, the reformation of vocational education involves meticulous class design to impart practical skills relevant to the real world. A close eye is kept on the evolving educational landscape, with ongoing support provided to students post-education, ensuring they are well-prepared to embark on their careers. The key to success lies in ensuring that teachers are not just proficient but inspiring and guiding students to become leaders and pioneers in their chosen fields.
This approach aligns with the transformative vision of NEP, ensuring that vocational skilling becomes an inclusive and locally relevant endeavor. In conclusion, Gandhi’s vision of connecting vocational education with mainstream learning gains renewed importance. CSR initiatives provide a strategic avenue for corporates to revolutionize vocational skilling, especially in remote areas with limited educational opportunities. By learning from successful global models and embracing a nuanced approach, India can pave the way for a future where vocational education becomes a cornerstone for personal and national development
