National Credit Framework set to transform education landscape

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is gearing up to introduce a trial run of the National Credit Framework (NCrF) for classes VI, IX, and XI starting from the academic session of 2024-25. This initiative comes as part of the broader implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020, aimed at seamlessly integrating school, higher, and vocational education.

Last year, the government had launched the NCrF to facilitate this integration, allowing students to accumulate credits from pre-primary education up to the PhD level. In line with this, CBSE has developed draft guidelines for the framework’s implementation, which have received approval from the Union Ministry of Education after extensive workshops and discussions.

To refine these guidelines and assess their effectiveness, CBSE is now inviting its affiliated schools to participate in a pilot program. Schools interested in joining the pilot programme for classes VI, IX, and XI are requested to share their contact details through a link.

The NCrF offers diverse pathways for students to earn credits beyond traditional classroom instruction. Credits can be accrued through various activities such as laboratory work, projects, sports, performing arts, NCC participation, social work, vocational education, and experiential learning. Emphasising competency and learning outcome-based education, the framework mandates assessment for earning credits across all types of learning.

The credits earned by students will be stored in their Academic Bank of Credit (ABC), which will be linked to their APAAR ID and DigiLocker in the future, ensuring a seamless and transparent record of their academic achievements.

This initiative marks a significant step towards modernising the education system in India, fostering holistic development and empowering students to explore diverse learning opportunities beyond the confines of traditional classroom settings.