Kerala is all set to bring a major shift in its higher secondary education system by introducing credit hours, semesters and elective subjects, similar to the pattern followed in many international and higher education models. The changes are part of a broader reform aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and will be rolled out starting with the 2025–26 academic year. This means students from Class 11 onwards will have more flexibility in choosing subjects and managing their academic workload.
I found this update very important and timely because school education in India has often been criticised for being rigid and outdated. Kerala’s decision to bring college-like structures to school-level education could be a game-changer. It also shows that reforms promised under NEP 2020 are slowly becoming a reality. As someone who has been observing education policy changes, I feel this will not just impact students in Kerala, but also set an example for other states. Giving students the freedom to choose subjects and reducing stress by spreading exams across semesters can make learning more meaningful and future-ready. It’s something every parent, teacher and student should be aware of and prepare for.
What Is Changing in Kerala’s Higher Secondary Education?
The Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE), Kerala, is planning to roll out a semester-based system with credit hours, much like college structures. These changes will apply to students of Classes 11 and 12 and are aimed at creating a more flexible and student-friendly environment.
Here are the major reforms being considered:
- Semester System: Instead of annual exams, the academic year will be split into two semesters
- Credit Hours: Subjects will carry credit points based on the number of teaching hours
- Elective Subjects: Students can choose elective subjects beyond their core stream (science, commerce or humanities)
- Multidisciplinary Learning: A science student may be allowed to pick an art subject like music or theatre as an elective
- Activity and Skill-Based Learning: More importance will be given to hands-on learning, projects and local contexts
The new system is expected to be piloted in selected schools first before expanding statewide.
Why These Changes Matter
One of the biggest issues in our current school system is the lack of flexibility. Students are forced into strict subject combinations and have very little say in how or what they learn. With this reform:
- Students can explore different fields before making final career choices
- It will help reduce exam pressure since assessments are spread across semesters
- Schools will be encouraged to adopt student-centric teaching methods
- It opens up room for creativity and innovation in classroom activities
Another major benefit is that Kerala students will be better prepared for university life where credit systems and semester patterns are the norm.
Alignment with NEP 2020
The National Education Policy 2020 pushes for flexibility, choice-based learning and reduction in rote memorisation. Kerala’s plan seems to reflect this vision directly. It supports:
- Holistic and multidisciplinary education
- Flexible curriculum and choice of subjects
- Continuous and comprehensive evaluation
- Integration of skills and vocational training
The credit system will also help in smooth transition if students move between states or educational boards.
Challenges and Concerns
While the plan is ambitious, it is not without challenges:
- Schools will need additional training for teachers to handle semester-based planning
- Infrastructure changes may be needed to support electives and activities
- Some rural schools may struggle to offer diverse subject choices
- Proper evaluation models need to be developed for credit-based assessment
But the government seems to be aware of these issues and is working closely with education experts to prepare a strong roadmap before implementation.
