Shillong (Meghalaya), Jan 16: In a landmark decision, the Meghalaya Cabinet has approved the Community-Integrated Skill Learning (CISL) initiative, set to transform school education by integrating learning with life, work, and community realities. This pioneering programme will be introduced for students of Classes VI to X, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 vision of experiential and competency-based learning.
CISL will be implemented as part of the existing Health & Physical Education subject, with students choosing from various learning domains such as family occupations, sports, arts, culture, and entrepreneurship. A unique aspect of the programme is that 50% of the assessment weightage will be given to community-based learning, allowing students to learn outside the classroom under the guidance of parents, guardians, coaches, mentors, or community experts.
The initiative aims to mainstream vocational and skill-based learning, reduce social stigma around traditional occupations, and recognize alternative learning pathways. By reconnecting education with life, the government hopes to restore dignity to labour and nurture skilled, community-rooted citizens of Meghalaya.
Implementation is set to begin from Feb 9, for Classes VI to IX and 2027 for Class X. The Directorate of Educational Research and Training (DERT) will develop guidelines and frameworks to ensure uniformity and academic rigor. This bold step is expected to make education more meaningful and joyful for students, while strengthening families and preserving traditional knowledge systems.
