Proficiency in technical skills is essential for employment in the world being shaped by fifth industrial revolution, yet the cultivation of complementary soft skills remains crucial for career success. National Education Policy 2020 envisions education that prepares students for meaningful and satisfying lives; education that enables personal accomplishment and enlightenment, constructive public engagement, and productive contribution to the society. The Education Department of Chandigarh Administration (India) has been offering Skills Courses under four broad categories viz., Home Science, Health and Paramedical, Engineering, and Commerce with the aim to enhance employability. The present research paper explores the intricate relationship between vocational skills and soft skills within the context of Vocational Education by seeking and analysing perceptions of teachers and students. Qualitative methodologies being employed for this study presents the prevailing scenario of soft skills development among students enrolled in such Skill Courses. The research examines the extent to which vocational programs equip students with essential soft skills and the evaluation of the role played by teachers. The study findings are envisaged to lead to a comprehensive understanding of the difficulties and opportunities in including soft skills into vocational education so as to inform policy-makers, educators, and industry stakeholders in creating effective courses under vocational programs that prepare school graduates not only for the demands of the emerging workplace but also to lead satisfying lives.

Authors:
Divya Atraya, Panjab Univeristy, India
Kuldeep Kaur, Panjab University, India

About the Presenter(s)
Divya is a research scholar in the Department of Education, Panjab university, Chandigarh, India. Currently studying soft skills in emerging learning and working spaces.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/divya-atraya-5201431ab/

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