CBSE skill courses: Building future-ready students beyond academics
Digital media and IT skills
Digital Media, IT, and Computer application coursesin the CBSE skill curriculum cover areas such as graphic designs, video production, content editing, and elementary programming. These disciplines improve learning in computer science, English, and mathematics as they foster skills in logical thinking and creative expressions. In this technology-prominent world, students are given theoretical knowledge blended with practical skills on an as-needed basis, for academic use and real world applications.
Entrepreneurship and Business Studies
Entrepreneurship Courses by CBSE have greatly contributed toward reinforcing students' grasp of business studies, accountancy, and economics. These courses cover the essentials of business planning, market behavior, finance, and persuasive communication skills. It is an established fact that applying economic concepts in the field of entrepreneurship helps students comprehend economic theories and terminology better. This blend of conceptual and practical knowledge not only deepens their understanding of business subjects but also develops critical thinking, planning, and persuasive skills, which are required in delivering academic presentations and tackling real-world problems successfully.
Healthcare and wellness
CBSE also caters skill development classes related to healthcare and wellness; some of these are basic first aid, nutrition science, mental health awareness, and personal hygiene. These subjects hold greater affinity with subjects like biology, physical education, and home science, all intended to help students develop a strong link between academic content and its practical use. For example, a student of nutrition might see direct application of the coursework in a biology lesson about digestion and human anatomy. The mental-health modules address improved comprehension of emotional well-being and stress management in an environment wherein heavy academic pressure is a given. These courses combine theory with applicable knowledge, consequently equipping students to care for themselves and others in their communities.
Automotive and Engineering Technology
These courses provide a strong foundation in automotive technology and basic electronics for those students who consider engineering, mechanics, or industrial design as future career choices. These courses offer early technical exposure to processes involving construction of circuits, vehicle systems, and renewable energy sources. In these areas, practical work enhances the learning of Physics and Chemistry, as it is often impossible to understand an abstract theory without some sort of concrete example. The moment a student realizes the practical usefulness of an electrical current or mechanical motion, the student's academic knowledge takes a more concrete form. This orientation toward practical exposure combined with classroom theory sharpens analytical thinking and cultivates problem-solving approaches, proficiencies essential in any scientific or technical endeavor.
Creative Arts and Design
The arts, photography, dramatics, and craft design courses go hand in hand with supporting subjects like Social Studies, History, and Languages. These disciplines have always been looked upon as a means of creative expression, be it storytelling or visual learning. When students are set to either recreate scenes from history or to perform dramatics based on literature, they get to nurture their creativity and their ability to communicatewith emotional depth, closely tied to the academic content.
Why skill courses enhance academic learning
Skill courses do not displace academics; rather, they enhance the academic curriculum. Integrating theory with practical application helps students understand the subject matter well and remain engaged throughout. Furthermore, these courses allow students to discover their interests at an early stage and further prepare them with important life skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management.
Summing up
CBSE skill courses act as valuable extensions of academic learning, not as replacements for it. They add practical capabilities and a real-life dimension to classroom education through technology and media, health and wellness, entrepreneurship, engineering, and the arts. Rooted in the future agenda of CBSE, in conjunction with insights from APWS, the programme will guide students toward becoming capable, confident, and multifaceted individuals prepared for life beyond exams.
(The author is Principal, Modern Public School)
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
17 hours ago
- Time of India
13 Foods that can worsen anxiety and depression and what to eat instead
Diet plays a crucial role in mental health, influencing anxiety, depression, and overall mood. While lifestyle and genetics are important factors, certain foods and beverages can exacerbate stress, trigger irritability, or worsen depressive symptoms. Consuming high-sugar drinks, processed snacks, artificial sweeteners, and excessive caffeine can create energy spikes and crashes, negatively impacting both brain and body. Understanding which foods to limit and choosing healthier alternatives can stabilise mood, improve mental resilience, and support overall well-being. According to multiple studies from Harvard , NIH , and Frontiers , these are some common dietary triggers for anxiety and depression. Foods that may trigger anxiety and depression Fruit juice While fruit is healthy, fruit juice lacks the fiber of whole fruit. Fiber slows the absorption of sugar, preventing sharp spikes and crashes in blood glucose. Drinking juice can quickly raise your energy and then drop it, leaving you feeling irritable and hungry. Instead, eat whole fruits for sustained energy and drink water when you're thirsty. Regular soda Sugar-sweetened drinks, including soda, provide rapid sugar spikes with little nutritional value. According to the research published in NIH, there's a direct link between excessive sugar intake and increased risk of depression. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Secure Your Child's Future with Strong English Fluency Planet Spark Learn More Undo If you crave something fizzy, try sparkling water with a splash of natural fruit juice. It offers the sensation of soda without the excessive sugar. Diet soda Even though it contains little or no sugar, diet soda isn't harmless. Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and high caffeine levels can contribute to depressive symptoms and worsen anxiety. Limiting diet sodas and choosing naturally flavored water or herbal teas is a safer choice. White bread and toast According to Harvard Health Publishing , highly processed white bread converts rapidly into sugar, leading to energy spikes and crashes that may aggravate anxiety or low mood. Swap white bread for whole-grain varieties, which provide fiber and support more stable blood sugar levels. 'Light' or sugar-free dressings Many pre-packaged dressings use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar. According to a study published in NIH, ingredients like aspartame may negatively affect mood and contribute to anxiety. Making homemade dressings with olive oil, lemon juice, or vinegar can help you avoid these additives while enjoying a healthier flavor. Ketchup While it may seem harmless, ketchup is high in sugar, even in 'light' varieties, which may also contain artificial sweeteners. Excess sugar and additives can worsen mood swings and anxiety. Consider homemade tomato salsa with spices like cayenne for a flavorful, healthier alternative. Coffee Caffeine affects everyone differently. According to a study published in Frontiers, for some, it can increase nervousness, jitteriness, and sleep disruption, factors that intensify anxiety and depressive symptoms. If caffeine impacts you negatively, consider decaf or gradually reduce intake. For those who tolerate it well, moderate coffee consumption may actually improve alertness and mood. Energy drinks Energy drinks often contain excessive caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants such as guarana, which can trigger heart palpitations, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Instead, stick to water, herbal tea, or a piece of fruit for a natural energy boost. Alcohol Even moderate alcohol intake can interfere with sleep, which is closely tied to mental health. While occasional drinks may relax you, overconsumption increases anxiety and depressive symptoms. Limiting to moderate levels—up to one drink a day for women and two for men—can help reduce these risks. Frosting and trans fats According to a study published in NIH , sugary frostings and foods containing partially hydrogenated oils are linked to depression. These trans fats are found in fried foods, packaged snacks, and baked goods. Focus on 'good' fats from olive oil, nuts, avocado, and fatty fish, which support brain health and mood stability. Soy sauce and gluten-containing processed foods For those sensitive to gluten, soy sauce and other processed foods can trigger sluggishness, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Always check labels and avoid items containing gluten if you notice negative effects. Processed and fried foods Frequent consumption of processed meats, fried foods, pastries, high-fat dairy, and refined cereals is linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression. A diet focused on whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and fish is associated with more balanced moods and improved mental health. Doughnuts and sugary treats While occasional treats are fine, doughnuts are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined flour. Eating them regularly can worsen mood swings and contribute to anxiety or low mood. Make indulgences rare rather than routine. What you eat plays a crucial role in managing anxiety and depression. Limiting sugar, highly processed foods, artificial sweeteners, and excess caffeine or alcohol can reduce mood swings and anxiety symptoms. Focus on whole grains, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and proper hydration. Small dietary changes, combined with lifestyle measures like exercise, sleep, and stress management, can significantly improve mental well-being. By making mindful food choices, you support both your body and mind, fostering a more balanced, resilient state of health. Also Read: Coconut meat doesn't raise blood sugar level: A diabetes-friendly snack and 3 groups of people who should avoid it "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
Hans India
2 days ago
- Hans India
CBSE skill courses: Building future-ready students beyond academics
In response to the continuously changing educational demands and employment landscape, CBSE has strategically implemented skill education under its curriculum. These courses go far beyond imparting vocational training by encouraging organizational skills,flexibility, and technical knowhow. This multi-dimensional approach not only facilitates academic achievements but also grooms students to become responsible adults empowered with essential skills to cope with the modern work environment. Digital media and IT skills Digital Media, IT, and Computer application coursesin the CBSE skill curriculum cover areas such as graphic designs, video production, content editing, and elementary programming. These disciplines improve learning in computer science, English, and mathematics as they foster skills in logical thinking and creative expressions. In this technology-prominent world, students are given theoretical knowledge blended with practical skills on an as-needed basis, for academic use and real world applications. Entrepreneurship and Business Studies Entrepreneurship Courses by CBSE have greatly contributed toward reinforcing students' grasp of business studies, accountancy, and economics. These courses cover the essentials of business planning, market behavior, finance, and persuasive communication skills. It is an established fact that applying economic concepts in the field of entrepreneurship helps students comprehend economic theories and terminology better. This blend of conceptual and practical knowledge not only deepens their understanding of business subjects but also develops critical thinking, planning, and persuasive skills, which are required in delivering academic presentations and tackling real-world problems successfully. Healthcare and wellness CBSE also caters skill development classes related to healthcare and wellness; some of these are basic first aid, nutrition science, mental health awareness, and personal hygiene. These subjects hold greater affinity with subjects like biology, physical education, and home science, all intended to help students develop a strong link between academic content and its practical use. For example, a student of nutrition might see direct application of the coursework in a biology lesson about digestion and human anatomy. The mental-health modules address improved comprehension of emotional well-being and stress management in an environment wherein heavy academic pressure is a given. These courses combine theory with applicable knowledge, consequently equipping students to care for themselves and others in their communities. Automotive and Engineering Technology These courses provide a strong foundation in automotive technology and basic electronics for those students who consider engineering, mechanics, or industrial design as future career choices. These courses offer early technical exposure to processes involving construction of circuits, vehicle systems, and renewable energy sources. In these areas, practical work enhances the learning of Physics and Chemistry, as it is often impossible to understand an abstract theory without some sort of concrete example. The moment a student realizes the practical usefulness of an electrical current or mechanical motion, the student's academic knowledge takes a more concrete form. This orientation toward practical exposure combined with classroom theory sharpens analytical thinking and cultivates problem-solving approaches, proficiencies essential in any scientific or technical endeavor. Creative Arts and Design The arts, photography, dramatics, and craft design courses go hand in hand with supporting subjects like Social Studies, History, and Languages. These disciplines have always been looked upon as a means of creative expression, be it storytelling or visual learning. When students are set to either recreate scenes from history or to perform dramatics based on literature, they get to nurture their creativity and their ability to communicatewith emotional depth, closely tied to the academic content. Why skill courses enhance academic learning Skill courses do not displace academics; rather, they enhance the academic curriculum. Integrating theory with practical application helps students understand the subject matter well and remain engaged throughout. Furthermore, these courses allow students to discover their interests at an early stage and further prepare them with important life skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management. Summing up CBSE skill courses act as valuable extensions of academic learning, not as replacements for it. They add practical capabilities and a real-life dimension to classroom education through technology and media, health and wellness, entrepreneurship, engineering, and the arts. Rooted in the future agenda of CBSE, in conjunction with insights from APWS, the programme will guide students toward becoming capable, confident, and multifaceted individuals prepared for life beyond exams. (The author is Principal, Modern Public School)
New Indian Express
2 days ago
- New Indian Express
MKU students complain of water shortage, dirty toilets
MADURAI: Students and staff members of Madurai Kamaraj University complain there are not enough toilets, and drinking water facilities in the sprawling campus. More than 2,500 students, including research scholars, and 500 faculty and non-teaching staff visit the campus daily. In addition, the Directorate of Distance Education centre is functioning on the campus and at least 100 students visit the campus for several reasons including admission, obtaining certificates. More than 100 teaching and non-teaching staff work in DDE. According to the DDE students, toilets lack hygiene. On Tuesday, TNIE visited the campus and found that many departments did not have adequate drinking water facilities and many toilets were kept closed allegedly due to water shortage. R Varsha (name changed), a student from the English department, said though toilets are available on the first floor, they remain closed most of the time due to lack of water supply. Toilets in the ground floor have to be used by all students in the entire block, and it is not cleaned regularly. 'I stopped drinking water during class hours in order to avoid using the toilets. There are several students who are like me and suffer urinary tract infections and other health issues,' she said. Requesting anonymity, a teaching staff from the varsity, said toilets meant for them are poorly maintained, dirty, and lack water. 'Lack of facilities can pose severe hardship to girl students during menstruation. Students may avoid drinking water or eating during class hours to avoid using the unhygienic toilets. This may lead to dehydration and impacting their ability to focus on studies. The locks are broken on several toilet doors. Such issues are not fixed regularly by the authorities,' said a staff. The faculty further pointed out that just one drinking water dispenser is available in the Tamil department, that too donated by a staff. 'There are no drinking water facilities in departments of English, Economics, philosophy, linguistics, history. The toilets in these sections are not hygienic. Even the TPM Library does not have water facility,' he said. Registrar (in charge) M Ramakrishnan was unavailable for comment. The MKU Estate officer Anand admitted there were not enough water dispensers and that toilets were not clean. 'We have sent proposal to the government for each and every department to carry out repair works and install RO water plants. We will rectify the lapse once we receive funds,' he said.
