Education body CABE undergoes remodelling for precision

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has revealed plans to revamp the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE), a significant committee guiding government education policies. This transformation is deemed necessary to adapt to the changing demands of today’s education system, especially in light of the recent paradigm shift introduced through the new education policy.

The CABE comprises members like the Education Minister, the Minister of State for Education, Education Ministers from various states, as well as the heads of institutes like the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), among others.

In addressing the lack of recent CABE meetings, Pradhan explained that the Board is in the process of being reconstituted. He emphasised that the previous iteration of CABE was too broad in scope and did not address the specific needs of the evolving education landscape. He also highlighted the introduction of Balvatikas and noted the necessity for specialised expertise, such as child specialists, within the Board.

Pradhan stressed that ultimately, CABE will play a crucial role in reviewing and synchronising various aspects of the NEP 2020, including curriculum development, syllabus design, textbook creation, regulatory reforms, and establishment of professional standards, accreditation mechanisms, and credit frameworks. When asked about the timeline for CABE’s reconstitution, Pradhan indicated to news sources that while it is on the agenda, it will be the final stage in the broader process, following developments in curriculum, textbooks, regulatory reforms, and the transition towards multidisciplinary education.