The Hunar Sikhya Schools in Ludhiana have taken a bold step towards transforming the way students learn by launching skill-based education for Class 11. This initiative is part of Punjab’s broader push to equip students not just with academic knowledge but also with hands-on skills that can help them in real-world jobs. Instead of sticking only to traditional subjects like physics or economics, students can now choose courses in fields like agriculture, healthcare, IT, beauty and wellness, and more.

I’m writing about this topic because this shift in our education approach deserves real attention. For years, we have been talking about the gap between education and employment—how many students finish school without any practical skills. The Hunar Sikhya model directly addresses that issue. It focuses on preparing students for life, not just exams. This move is especially important in smaller cities like Ludhiana, where job opportunities can open up if youth are skilled and ready. We need to follow this development closely and support it if we want a future where every student leaves school with something valuable in hand.

What Are Hunar Sikhya Schools?

Hunar Sikhya Schools are a Punjab government initiative aimed at shifting school education towards skill-based learning. These schools are specially chosen government senior secondary schools that offer vocational streams alongside regular academic options for Class 11 students.

This year, the initiative has been expanded to 64 government schools in Ludhiana district alone. The idea is to let students opt for subjects that teach them practical skills so they are better prepared for jobs, self-employment, or further technical training.

What Kind of Skills Are Being Offered?

Students have a wide range of skill subjects to choose from, depending on the school’s facilities and local demand:

• Agriculture and horticulture
• Beauty and wellness
• Retail management
• Health care assistance
• Information technology
• Travel and tourism
• Electrical and electronics

In some schools, courses in fashion designing and hospitality are also being introduced. These are not just textbook-based subjects; students are given practical training, field visits, and internship-like exposure.

Why This Move Matters for Punjab’s Youth

There are several reasons why this change is timely and necessary:

• High dropout rates after Class 10 in many areas due to lack of interest in purely academic subjects
• Growing unemployment, especially among those who have degrees but no hands-on skills
• Parents and students increasingly prefer job-ready education that leads to real income opportunities
• Skill-based subjects also improve confidence and communication among students

This change is also in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which clearly stresses the need for vocational education starting from the school level.

Teachers and Infrastructure Support

To make this work, schools are getting extra resources. Teachers are being specially trained to teach these skill subjects. The government is also working with industry partners for practical training modules and job exposure.

Some schools are tying up with local hospitals, farms, hotels, and shops to give students real-life experience. For example, a student learning healthcare may get to assist in a basic medical camp or a local clinic, while an IT student may work on actual computer systems in a cyber café or institute.

Early Reactions from Students and Parents

Initial response has been positive. Many students say they finally enjoy coming to school because the subjects feel relevant. Parents are also supporting the move as they see a clearer path to jobs or self-employment for their children.

Of course, there are still challenges like the need for better labs, trained teachers in remote areas, and awareness among parents in rural parts. But the beginning looks promising.