To cultivate practical competencies and skills alongside academic education, vocational and skill training has become a mandatory, core component of school curricula in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.
To implement this directive, schools are advised to establish either a single Composite Skill Lab of 600 sq. ft. for classes VI–XII, or two separate labs of 400 sq. ft. each—one for classes VI–IX and the other for classes XI–XII.
The timeline for setup is determined by CBSE affiliation status: institutions seeking fresh affiliation must have a fully equipped Composite Skill Lab with all necessary machinery and equipment as a mandatory prerequisite. Meanwhile, already affiliated schools are required to establish this facility within three years of the circular’s issuance, establishing a compliance deadline of August 22, 2027.
Furthermore, the Board has formulated extensive guidelines to facilitate the setting up and functional management of school-based Composite Skill Labs. The inventory of machinery and tools detailed within these protocols is intended as a recommendation, allowing institutions to adapt their selection according to their specific readiness and needs.
This comprehensive manual, which delineates structural prerequisites, equipment standards, safety protocols, and strategic deployment phases, can be accessed via the official CBSE academic portal.
Recommended Vocational (Composite Skill) Lab Setup
Space Requirements
One Composite Skill Lab of 600 sq. ft. for Classes VI–XII
OR
Two separate labs of 400 sq. ft. each:
Lab 1: Classes VI–X
Lab 2: Classes XI–XII
Suggestive Infrastructure for Vocational Lab
Flexible workstations with movable tables
Storage cabinets for tools and consumables
Display boards and smart TV/projector
Adequate lighting and ventilation
Internet connectivity with Wi-Fi
Power outlets at workstations
Wash basin with water supply (where required)
Safety signage and emergency exits
Safety Equipment
Fire extinguisher
First-aid box
PPE (gloves, masks, goggles, aprons etc.)
Electrical safety devices
ICT Facilities
Desktop/Laptop computers
Printer and scanner
Projector/Interactive panel
Internet connection
Basic software for coding, AI, design, and office productivity
Learning Resources
Skill subject textbooks
Practical manuals
Charts and models
Digital content
Record Keeping
Lab register
Stock register
Maintenance register
Student practical record
Safety inspection register
Display Area
Student projects
Career information
NSQF level charts
Entrepreneurship corner
Innovation wall
Engagement with local industries/skill partners:
Institutes such as IIT, NIT, PSSCIVE, NID and local industries may be tied up to conduct special lectures and share insights on emerging industry trends. Their expertise will help expose students to real world applications, strengthen the purpose of vocational lab and bridge the gap between the school based learning and industry expectations.
Vocational Lab constructed under PM SHRI scheme should be named as “Innovation & Skill Centre”.
Vocational Education in Innovation & Skill Centre is categorized into three “Forms of Work”:
- Life Forms,
- Machines & Materials,
- Human Services.
Suggestive posters can be installed in the Innovation & Skill centre
Hydroponic Setup In Vidyalaya
