Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) on August 23, representing a revolutionary stride towards realizing the objectives of the National Education Policy. The development of the NCF-SE was guided by a vision to align education with the demands of the 21st century and the ethos of the Indian knowledge system.
During the event, the Minister announced that the textbooks for class 3-12 will be aligned with 21st Century requirements, making them rooted and futuristic. He said that in order to live up to our global responsibilities, we have to develop technology-driven educational system that meets expectations of the world alongside India.
The National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) is the curriculum framework for the 5+3+3+4 design of schooling as proposed by the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020). Under the NCF-SE, there is a revitalized focus on Art Education, Physical Education & Well-being, Environmental Education, and Vocational Education. Additionally, there is a renewed emphasis on Multilingualism, conceptual grasp of Mathematics, and nurturing scientific inquiry skills. The curriculum’s interdisciplinary approach prompts students to explore the relationship between individuals, society, and the environment.
The entire curriculum framework for all the four stages of 5+3+3+4– Foundational Stage, Preparatory Stage, Middle Stage, and Secondary Stage was also released on the occasion.
Some of the key components of these stages include:
– Comprehensive curriculum framework covering all 4 stages of schooling
– Enable real improvement in practise of education in the country
– Development of Knowledge, Capacities, and Values
– Conceptual understanding and procedural fluency in Mathematics
– Curriculum on ‘rooted in India’, which includes contributions to the knowledge in various disciplines by Indians from the ancient to contemporary times
According to the official statement, the all-encompassing essence of NCF-SE guarantees its inclusivity across all educational levels. It establishes well-defined benchmarks for learning standards and skills, empowering educators to cultivate qualities like critical thinking, creativity, and profound comprehension. This framework emboldens teachers, promotes immersive teaching methodologies, and underscores the significance of school ethos and principles.
Addressing the event, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized that the release of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education marks a significant step towards NEP implementation. He further noted that efforts are underway to introduce new textbooks by the upcoming academic year.