Focus on Skills in the NEP & its Relevance in the Apparel Sector

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 of India places significant emphasis on the development of skills among students. Recognizing the changing global landscape and the demands of the 21st-century workforce, the policy acknowledges that traditional academic knowledge alone is not sufficient for holistic development and success.

Here are some of the skill highlights of the NEP:

?1. Employability and Job Readiness: In today's rapidly evolving job market, employers seek candidates who possess not only academic knowledge but also practical skills. Skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, adaptability, and teamwork are essential for students to be job-ready and successful in their careers.

?2. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Developing a strong entrepreneurial mindset and innovation skills is crucial for fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. Encouraging students to think creatively, take calculated risks, and identify opportunities can lead to the creation of new businesses and solutions, contributing to economic growth.

?3. Vocational and Technical Skills: The NEP 2020 recognizes the importance of vocational and technical education to address the skill gaps in various industries. Integrating vocational training into the mainstream education system allows students to acquire practical skills that directly align with specific career paths, making them more employable.

?4. Life Skills: Apart from academic knowledge, students need life skills to navigate through various challenges in their personal and professional lives. These skills include time management, emotional intelligence, financial literacy, and decision-making, which are essential for overall well-being and success.

?5. Multidisciplinary Approach: The NEP encourages a multidisciplinary approach to education, enabling students to explore different subjects and areas of interest. This approach helps them develop a diverse skill set and a broader perspective, enhancing their ability to tackle complex real-world problems.

?6. Global Competitiveness: With an increasingly interconnected world, students need to be globally competitive. Cultivating skills like cross-cultural communication, adaptability to different environments, and awareness of global issues prepares them to thrive in a globalized economy.

?7. Lifelong Learning: The NEP recognizes that learning should not be confined to the classroom or a specific phase of life. It promotes a culture of continuous learning and skill development throughout one's life, enabling individuals to stay relevant and adaptable in a rapidly changing world.

?8. Social and Civic Engagement: Skill development is not only about personal and economic growth but also about fostering responsible citizens who actively contribute to society. Skills like leadership, social responsibility, and empathy, empower students to participate in community development and nation-building.

?By prioritizing the development of skills alongside academic learning, the NEP aims to produce well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of making a positive impact on society and thriving in a dynamic, globalized world. This integrated approach to education can lead to the holistic development of students, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in both their personal and professional lives.

?In the context of the apparel sector, the importance of skills, as emphasized in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in India, becomes even more evident. The apparel industry is a significant contributor to India's economy, providing employment to millions of people.

Here's how skills play a crucial role in this sector:

?1. Technical Skills: The apparel sector requires a diverse range of technical skills, including pattern making, garment construction, sewing, and machine operation. Skilled workers are essential to ensure high-quality and efficient production of garments. Integrating vocational training and technical education within the education system can help create a pool of skilled workers ready to meet the industry's demands. This work is being carried out by AMH SSC in India in partnership with industries, training institutes, schools, colleges and universities. The specific skill sets needed for each job role in the industry are defined in the Qualification Packs – National Occupational Standards, developed by the sector skill council. These standards are also updated time to time to ensure latest technology advancements and newer skill sets are taken into account. A great bridge to divide the gap between skills, education and employability.

?2. Design and Innovation: The apparel industry thrives on creativity and innovation. Design skills are critical for creating unique and appealing clothing lines that cater to changing consumer preferences. By fostering creativity and design thinking among students, the NEP can contribute to the growth of the fashion industry and encourage entrepreneurship in this sector.

?3. Technology Integration: With advancements in technology, the apparel industry has also embraced automation and digital tools to streamline processes and improve efficiency. Students need to be equipped with digital literacy and the ability to use specialized software and equipment in the apparel manufacturing and design process.

?4. Supply Chain Management: An understanding of supply chain management is crucial in the apparel sector. Skills like inventory management, logistics, and sourcing are essential for smooth and cost-effective operations. Integrating these skills into the curriculum can help create professionals who can effectively manage the supply chain in the apparel industry.

?5. Sustainability and Ethical Practices: As the industry faces growing concerns about environmental sustainability and ethical practices, education can play a vital role in creating awareness and promoting sustainable practices. Skills related to sustainable design, eco-friendly materials, and responsible manufacturing can contribute to a more sustainable and socially responsible apparel sector.

?6. Market Research and Consumer Behaviour: Understanding market trends and consumer behaviour is essential for apparel businesses to create products that meet consumer demands. Skills related to market research, data analysis, and consumer insights can help students make informed decisions as future professionals in the apparel sector.

?7. Soft Skills: In addition to technical skills, soft skills are equally important in the apparel industry. Effective communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and customer service skills are vital for professionals working in this sector, especially in areas like retail, sales, and marketing.

?The above skill sets will be crucial to develop and foster entrepreneurship, innovation, and enhancing employment opportunities within the apparel industry, thereby contributing to the nation's economic progress.

?It is important to continue to strengthen the support system by having trained teachers for vocational skill subjects, having suitable industry tie-ups, providing training on competency based assessments and training on how to nurture student’s creativity alongside their intellect. A lot of work has already been initiated in this direction, the Govt. and private stakeholders must continue to work together to make this shift to outcome based education in an effective and timely manner.

By

Ms Nayantara Chatterjee

Co-founder & Director, Vidyadhara Consultancy LLP