Discussion Meeting on Potential Areas of Cooperation as Per MoU Between National Instructional Media Institute (NIMI) and PSSCIVE on 3 April, 2024 The first face to face Discussion meeting on Potential Areas of Cooperation as Per MoU Between National Instructional Media Institute (NIMI) and PSSCIVE was held on 3rd April, 2024 at PSSCIVE, Bhopal. Five officials from NIMI and PSSCIVE faculty members attended the meeting on 3rd April, 2024 to disuss on the Areas of Cooperation as Per MoU between National Instructional Media Institute (NIMI) and PSSCIVE. The Joint Director, PSSCIVE welcomed the officials from NIMI to PSSCIVE. He has presented the Role and Functions of the institute. He then presented the work done by PSSCIVE in the development of curricula, textbooks and digital resources in the various job roles and the activities conducted by the institute during 2023-24. The officials from NIMI presented the work done by them in vocational education for the varius job roles. They have presented the complete process of development of IMP (Instructional Material Package) which consists of Student textbook, Instructor Manual and Digital Resources. All the faculty members of PSSCIVE discussed on various aspects of development of teaching learning material with them. At the end of the meeting to start on the Potential Areas of Cooperation, the common consenses was made for the development of digital resources of the selected job roles, Translation of the selected textbooks, Development of MOCK Test for DVET students and Trainees, Development Instructor Guide, and Development of Assessment Framework. The meeting ends with the vote of thanks by the coordinator Dr. Deepak Shudhalwar, Professor (CSE), PSSCIVE, Bhopal.

Ambedkar Jayanti was celebrated on 14th April 2024, with enthusiasm at the PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal. The Joint Director, PSSCIVE Dr Deepak Paliwal delivered a keynote address highlighting Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s significant contribution and their relevance today. Emphasizing the integration of constitutional values into daily operations, the Joint Director urged attendees to embody these principles. Senior faculty members also spoke, reflecting on Dr Ambedkar’s legacy of social justice and equality. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, recognizing the contributions of all involved.

The Deputy Director of Vocational Education and Training from Regional Office at Nashik and Sambhajinagar of Maharashtra State visited PSSCIVE on 15th April, 2024 to discuss the matter of training of Vocational Teachers on 19 Job Roles selected by the state for implementation in the Bifocal Stream of Vocational Education at Senior Secondary level. The meeting with the Deputy Directors and PSSCIVE faculty was chaired by Dr. Deepak Paliwal, Joint Director, PSSCIVE, Bhopal. The matter was discussed with the respective coordinator of the job roles. After the discussion it was revealed that a training programme for 6 Job Roles will be conducted from 22 to 26 April at PSSCIVE, Bhopal and for other job roles the programmes will be planned in the month of June, 2024. The meeting was coordinated by the state coordinator Dr. V. K. Jain and Dr. Pravin Narayan Mahamuni, PSSCIVE, Bhopal.

On 3rd May 2024, the Pandit Sunderlal Sharma Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE) hosted a lecture titled "Sharing Experience on Skill Development," featuring Mrs Nidhi Goyal, Programme Vice President at Tata Indian Institute of Skills, as the keynote speaker. Joint Director Dr. Deepak Paliwal, faculty members, and officials from various departments attended, alongside representatives from esteemed institutions like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Polytechnic College and Government Women's Polytechnic College. Mrs. Goyal shared insights from her career journey, emphasizing experiential learning and the role of vocational institutions in India's development by 2047. She advocated for integrating creativity, innovation, and industry partnerships in vocational education and training.

On 21st June 2024, the PSSCIVE Library organized a one-day workshop on "Publishing Academic Books" in collaboration with Springer Nature. Ms. Swati Meherishi, Editorial Director of Springer Nature, New Delhi delivered insights on research paper trends and the book publication process, including developing proposals, manuscript preparation, reviews, and open access resources. Around 87 faculty, staff, and the trainees of the Diploma in Vocational Education and Training (VET) programme engaged actively in the event, discussing textbook development and publication strategies. Dr. Deepak Paliwal, Joint Director, emphasized PSSCIVE's commitment to vocationalisation of school education, enhancing research efforts and advancing vocational knowledge and skills

The Pandit Sunderlal Sharma Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE) organized an orientation programme for newly appointed faculty members from 27th May to 13th June 2024.

Celebration of 31st Foundation Day of PSSCIVE: 5th July 2024 The 31st Foundation Day of Pandit Sunderlal Sharma Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE) was celebrated on July 5, 2024. The Chief Guest at the event was Prof. Kailasa Rao M., Director of the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Bhopal. Dr. Deepak Paliwal, Joint Director of PSSCIVE, Prof. Jaydeep Mandal, Principal of the Regional Institute of Education, Bhopal, and Programme Coordinator Prof. Vinay Swarup Mehrotra were also present on the dais during the inaugural function of the celebration. On the occasion, the PSSCIVE’s Programme Calendar for 2024-25 was also unveiled. Chief Guest Prof. Kailasa Rao M. emphasized the integration of the Indian Knowledge System into construction technology and stressed the need for specific skill training for youth. He praised NCERT's initiative to include vocational education in textbooks and expressed a desire to collaborate with PSSCIVE. Prof. Jaydeep Mandal commended PSSCIVE’s efforts to bridge general and vocational education in line with NEP 2020. Dr Deepak Paliwal highlighted that according to the National Education Policy 2020 by 2025, at least 50% of the learners in the school and higher education system shall have exposure to vocational education. The celebration saw active participation from various stakeholders, including Principals, Teachers, Students, and faculty members of PSSCIVE and Regional Institute of Education, Bhopal.

PSSCIVE recently concluded a fruitful summer camp on “Experiential Learning” for students in Grades 6 to 8 from 5th June to 14th June 2024. There were 18 students from 10 schools who engaged in hands-on activities like potting, depotting and repotting of plants, drone simulation, IoT-based micro-irrigation, preparation of jam and jelly, making paper and cloth bags and 3D printing. Facilitated by the Institute’s faculty, the camp emphasized practical skills and integrated vocational exposure aligned with NCF-SE 2023. Participants showcased their learnings in a final presentation, earning praise from parents for enhancing life skills and vocational exposure and insights. Dr. Deepak Paliwal, Joint Director, commended the camp's success, affirming PSSCIVE's commitment to holistic education and skill development.

Training of Teachers of Secondary Stage (Grades 11-12) Teaching in Retail sector: 1 to 5 July, 2024 A training programme for teachers of the secondary stage (Grades 11 & 12) specializing in the Retail sector was held from July 1 to 5, 2024, at the PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal. A total of 38 vocational trainers and teachers from eight states—Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, Karnataka, Telangana, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and West Bengal—participated in the programme. The participants were trained on various key topics, including the fundamentals of retailing, customer concern resolution, continuous service improvement, product selection, providing specialist customer support, sales presentation, selling skills, credit application processes, customer relationship management, stock display, visual merchandising, teamwork, organizational dynamics, loyalty schemes, customer information systems, and customer retention strategies. Additionally, they received assignments focused on conducting group discussions, role plays, writing case studies, maintaining student portfolios, and assessing student performance. The programme also included an industrial field visit to packaging industry and three shopping malls/retail outlets, providing participants with insight into the latest developments in the organized retail sector to help them implement retail vocational courses in their respective states.

Training of Teachers of Secondary Stage (Grades 11-12) teaching in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality sector: 8 to 12 July, 2024 A training programme for secondary stage teachers (Grades 11 & 12) specializing in domain-specific skills in the Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality sector was held from July 8 to 12, 2024, at the PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education, Bhopal. A total of 37 vocational trainers and teachers from eight states across India—Odisha, Telangana, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, and Uttarakhand—participated in the programme. The training aimed to equip educators with the job role and industry-specific skills needed to prepare students for careers in these dynamic sectors. The programme included interactive sessions, practical demonstrations, and discussions on the latest industry trends. Key resource persons from organizations such as the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Bhopal, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa Qatar, Jagran Lake City University Bhopal, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Bhopal Circle, Travel India Tourism Pvt. Ltd. Bhopal, and a Heritage Tour Guide from Bhopal provided valuable industry insights, enriching the overall learning experience.

Design, Development and Maintenance of Web Applications, Network Infrastructure and Social Media of PSSCIVE (PAC Code 21.14) – WGM – I The first workshop for Design, Development and Maintenance of Web Applications, Network Infrastructure, Social Media and Network Infrastructure of PSSCIVE (PAC Code 21.14) was organised at PSSCIVE, Bhopal from 1 to 12 July, 2024. One external expert attended the workshop along with the project staff. In this workshop, at first the expired SSL installed and also the digital certificate of VPN account expired after one year was installed. While doing the work of search engine opotimization and applying the Algoria search utility, it was noticed that this things can be applied on the latest version of software PHP and Laravel. The institute website is hosted on the Linux CentOS version 7.9. web server and the Cent OS 7.9 has reached the end of life on 30 June, 2024. It was also reported by NIC that the current Apache server is outdated and it should be upgraded. The upgraded versions of PHP, Laravel and Apache are not available for Cent OS web server as it has reached end of life. Hence in consultation with NDC Bhubaneswar where our virtual machine is located and in consultation with NICSI, HQ, Delhi, the new web server Ubuntu 22.04 was temporarily allocated. All the existing services, including the code and storage of the website was migrated to new Ubuntu server. In this process we have to make several phone calls to NDC Bhubaneswar and NICSI, HQ, Delhi. For this the expert has to stay for two more days and at last all the services including data and code migrated to new web server Ubuntu Linux. But the DNS mapping could not be done as to make the website public it is mandatory to conduct the security audit of the website, which has to be done by the user department. This work is pending at institute level. After completing the security audit the website can be made public in the new web server.

The World Youth skills Day was celebrated in Pandit Sunderlal Sharma Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE) on July 15, 2024. The event was attended by notable guests including Mr. Kapil Agrawal, CEO, Sagar Manufacturers Private Limited (SMPL), Bhopal, Dr. Deepak Paliwal, Joint Director of PSSCIVE, Prof. Jaydeep Mandal, Principal of the Regional Institute of Education, Bhopal, Prof. Vinay Swarup Mehrotra, Head, Centre for International Relationship and Prof. P. Veeraiah, Programme Coordinator. The theme of World Youth skills Day was “Youth Skills for Peace and Development”. The Chief Guest Mr. Kapil Agrawal in his address emphasized that in the present scenario skilled youth are the future of the nation and they are the contributors for the peace building and sustainable development in the country. The programme was attended by the faculty and staff of PSSCIVE, Regional Institute of Education and Teachers and Students from various secondary schools. The Secondary students from Demonstration Multipurpose School, RIE, Bhopal presented their views on vocational education in IT&ITeS Sector (03 students), Beauty and Wellness Sector (02 students), Agriculture Sector (04 students) and Retail sector (02 students). The students also presented a Role Play on ‘Customer Handling’ in Retail sector.

On the first day of "SHIKSHA SAPTAH," commemorating the 4th anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, PSSCIVE Bhopal hosted a dynamic session focused on Teaching-Learning Material (TLM) dissemination through vocational activities, engaging seventeen participants from across Madhya Pradesh. The session was divided into three core areas: Machine and Materials, Life Forms, and Human Services. Dr. Saurabh Prakash led the Machine and Materials section, showcasing the potential of futuristic technologies such as 3D printing and drone flying. He demonstrated the creation of 3D printed items like keychains and mobile stands, emphasizing the necessity of integrating 3D printing into mainstream and vocational education to enhance practical learning. The drone flying segment highlighted the importance of simulated practice before real-world application, illustrating the diverse utility of drones across various sectors. Additionally, Dr. Prakash presented miniature electric vehicles and other laboratory equipment, reinforcing the critical role of hands-on learning in understanding advanced technologies. In the Life Forms category, Dr. Pathak conducted an insightful session in the Agriculture lab, stressing the importance of incorporating agricultural education at the school level. Participants engaged in activities such as potting and depoting plants and learning grafting techniques, which are vital for horticulture. Dr. Pathak also demonstrated the use of various agricultural tools, advocating for their inclusion in school curricula to foster a deeper understanding of plant biology and agricultural practices among students. The Human Services segment offered practical training in baking and cooking activities, underlining the relevance of culinary skills within vocational education. Participants were shown various baking techniques, encouraging schools to adopt these activities to equip students with essential life skills. The day concluded with remarks from the program coordinator, who emphasized the importance of integrating these vocational activities into the school curriculum to align with the transformative goals of NEP 2020. In this programme 98 vocational teachers across the country participated in online mode and 25 people from DIET Madhya Pradesh in offline mode. These DIET faculty and few school principals are developing vocational modules for grade 6 to 8 on three forms of works based on their exposure visits to various local artisan and institutions. The coordinator highlighted how these practical sessions could significantly enhance students' knowledge and skills, preparing them for future challenges. Overall, the first day of SHIKSHA SAPTAH at PSSCIVE Bhopal successfully demonstrated the transformative potential of vocational education, setting a strong precedent for the upcoming sessions and reaffirming the commitment to advancing education nationwide.

Training of Teachers of Secondary Stage (Grades 11 & 12) on Domain Specific Skills in Transportation, Logistics and Warehousing Sector: 27 – 31 August 2024 The training programme for secondary stage teachers was held from 27 to 31 August 2024 at the PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal. The programme’s objectives were to equip vocational teachers with essential skills in Transportation, Logistics, and Warehousing. Emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, the programme addressed the skill needs of teachers to train the students in domain-specific skills aligned with industry standards, integrate technology, and ensure safety compliance. It also focuses on enhancing employability and preparing teachers to deliver high-quality, industry-relevant education to students, thereby improving vocational education in schools. The training included hands-on experience, group activities, and industry visits. Fourteen vocational teachers/trainers participated from the Goa state.

Training of Teachers of Secondary Stage (Grades 11-12) Teaching in Banking, Financial Services and Insurance Sector: 29 July to 2 August 2024 A training programme for secondary-stage vocational teachers of Grades 11 & 12, specializing in domain-specific skills within the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector was held from July 29 to August 2, 2024, at the PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education, Bhopal. The event was attended by 38 vocational trainers/teachers from Odisha, Telangana, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, Punjab, and Goa.

Training of Teachers of Secondary Stage (Grades 11-12) Teaching in Automotive Sector: 5 to 9 August 2024 A training programme for secondary-stage teachers (Grades 11 & 12) specializing in domain-specific skills in the automotive sector was held from August 5 to 9, 2024, at the PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE). Bhopal. The event was attended by 26 vocational trainers and teachers from five states—West Bengal, Haryana, Gujarat, Punjab, and Goa. The programme covered a wide range of topics, including experiential learning, conceptual clarity, vocational and intra-pedagogical approaches, remedial corrections, and culinary arts as areas for professional development. Sessions also focused on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), layout considerations, 3D printing technology, internal combustion engine fuel systems, solar installations (such as solar pumps), cost factors, and module and load calculations. Participants also visited the CI Hyundai Workshop and Service Centre to gain hands-on experience in engine maintenance and service procedures. A practical activity was conducted in the automobile lab, where participants disassembled and reassembled an engine.

Awareness Programme for Key Functionaries of Vocational Education as per National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 for Southern Region: 21 to 23 August 2024 An Awareness Programme for Key Functionaries of Vocational Education, in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, was conducted from August 21st to 23rd, 2024, at the Department of Business and Commerce, PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal. A total of 31 participants attended, including 10 from Telangana and 7 from Andhra Pradesh. The training covered various topics such as re-imagining vocational education and training in schools under NEP 2020, an overview of vocational education in India, and the role of key functionaries in implementing vocational education based on NEP 2020 and NCFSE 2023. Participants also explored vocational education implementation for the middle (Grades 6 to 8) and secondary (Grades 9 to 12) stages under the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF), student support systems, assessment, and evaluation, along with the digitization of vocational education administration. The programme highlighted enhancing vocational education awareness through ICT tools such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) and discussed various forms of work and activities in vocational education. The role of PSSCIVE in the development of digital resources, textbooks, training, and extension programmes was also emphasized. Additionally, the training focused on skilling adults and out-of-school children through the Skill Hub Initiative, schemes for promoting skill development and introducing bagless, fun-based learning activities in line with NEP 2020. Participants were also allowed to present best practices from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, followed by a feedback session where issues and challenges in implementing vocational education in their respective states were discussed.

Awareness Programme for Key Functionaries of Vocational Education as per National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 for Eastern Region: 21 to 24 August 2024 The PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal, organized an Awareness Programme for Key Functionaries of Vocational Education as per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023 for the Eastern Region, from August 21st to 24th, 2024. This 3-day programme was attended by 20 key functionaries from the Odisha State Education Project Authority (OSEPA) and Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE), Odisha, primarily consisting of principals and district vocational education coordinators. The inaugural session featured addresses from Dr. Deepak Paliwal, Joint Director of PSSCIVE, Prof. P. Veeriah, Head of Business and Commerce at PSSCIVE, and Dr. Ravichandran of PSSCIVE. They emphasized the importance of vocational teacher training and encouraged participants to fully engage with the learning opportunities presented. The dignitaries also acknowledged the expertise of the resource persons from PSSCIVE and encouraged participants to appreciate the knowledge and insights provided by such esteemed professionals. Certificates were distributed during the valedictory session, and Dr Paliwal held a detailed discussion with the Odisha participants regarding the current status of vocational education implementation in their state.

Boot Camp on Experiential Learning organised by PSSCIVE, Bhopal: 12 to 14 August, 2024 A three-day boot camp on "Experiential Learning " was held from August 12 to 14, 2024, at the Pandit Sunderlal Sharma Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal. The event was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister of Transport and School Education of Madhya Pradesh Shri Uday Pratap Singh, who emphasized the importance of hands-on learning by stating, He encouraged students to focus on skill development while fostering a sense of national pride. In the inaugural session, the Special Guest Mr. C.P. Sharma, Managing Director of Daulatram Industries Pvt. Ltd., Bhopal, inspired students to become job creators rather than job seekers, stressing the role of skills in contributing to India's vision of a $5 trillion economy. Dr. Paliwal, Joint Director of PSSCIVE, highlighted the significance of vocational education and encouraged students to discover their talents and take proactive steps towards their goals. Throughout the bootcamp, students engaged in a variety of hands-on activities, including drone simulation, 3D printing, smart trip planning, waste-to-wonder projects, block printing, and sustainable agriculture. A total of 99 students from 11 schools participated in the event.

A major focus of Prof. Mehrotra’s lecture was the implementation of vocational education at the Middle stage (Grades 6 to 8) in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023. He gave a detailed overview of the four educational stages outlined in the policy—Foundational, Preparatory, Middle, and Secondary—highlighting the importance of integrating vocational education across these stages to prepare students for the "World of Work." Prof. Mehrotra highlighted the significance of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) and State Curriculum Frameworks (SCFs), which aim to integrate vocational education into the mainstream curriculum, breaking down the traditional divide between academic and vocational learning. Prof. Mehrotra stated that the Middle stage (Age Group: 11 to 14 years; Grades: 6-8) supports early adolescence, where students begin to develop more abstract thinking and start exploring different subjects and skills. He described how vocational education can be effectively integrated with general education in the curriculum, particularly at the Middle stage (Grades 6 to 8), to create a well-rounded educational experience. He emphasized that vocational education should nurture respect for both intellectual and manual labour, aligning with the dignity of labour philosophy. He stated that at the Middle Stage, students will develop a broad-based understanding of different forms of work, which will equip them to successfully manage their personal work and responsibilities. At this stage, experiential learning is to be facilitated through hands-on activities like field visits, experiments, and project work. Project-based learning allows students to work on projects that require them to solve real-world problems or create something tangible. This will also equip them to identify, create, and initiate business, work, and community opportunities. Students in Grades 6-8 will participate in vocational crafts, such as gardening, pottery, cooking, toy making, filling a biodiversity register and the projects will be conducted, based on local skill needs and resources. Additionally, every student will engage in a 10-day "bagless" period during these grades, where they will intern with local vocational experts like carpenters, gardeners, potters, and artists. In his address, Prof. Mehrotra stressed the importance of work ethics and the continuous upgrading of teachers in the ever-evolving educational landscape. Prof. Mehrotra informed that the NCERT has published an activity book titled “Kaushal Bodh” for Grade 6, which comprises projects related to three work forms— life forms, machines and materials, and human services. The projects will help students to develop knowledge, skills, attitudes and values alongside ecological sensitivity, gender sensitivity, digital skills, and life skills. Prof. Mehrotra presented several key points essential for the successful implementation of vocational education at the middle stage (Grades 6 to 8): 1. Mindset Change: Society's perception of vocational education must shift to view it as a valuable path. 2. Rebranding: Vocational education should be rebranded as "Skill Education" to focus on skill development. 3. Systemic Reforms: The vocational education system needs reforms to align with contemporary needs. 4. Proper Guidance: Both students and parents should be informed of the significance of vocational education. 5. Experiential Learning: Engaging students in hands-on, practical experiences can enhance their exposure to various vocations. 6. Social Hierarchy Reform: The devaluation of vocational education in the social hierarchy needs to be addressed. 7. Awareness Campaigns: Efforts should be made to increase awareness and acceptance of vocational education. He also discussed PSSCIVE’s contributions, such as developing guidelines for the "10 Bagless Days" initiative and Career Cards, both designed to promote practical learning and vocational exploration in early education. A key takeaway from the lecture of Prof. Mehrotra was the focus on holistic student development through project-based learning and making skill education locally relevant by encouraging the incorporation of local crafts, trades, and practices into the curriculum. In his closing remarks, Dr. Vipin Kumar Jain underscored the importance of Prof. Mehrotra’s insights on vocational education and how NEP 2020's integration of vocational learning represents a transformative step toward a skill-focused, and inclusive education system.

Extension Lecture on Art Integrated Pedagogy in Vocational Education for the Middle Stage: 17 September 2024 The PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal organized a lecture on "Art Integrated Pedagogy in Vocational Education for the Middle Stage" as part of its Extension Lecture Series on September 17, 2024, at PSSCIVE, Bhopal. Dr. Jyotsna Tiwari, Professor and Head of the Development of Education in Arts and Aesthetics at NCERT, was the keynote speaker. The event was co-chaired by Prof. V.S. Mehrotra and Prof. R.K. Pathak, with Prof. V.K. Jain serving as the event coordinator. The lecture was attended by senior faculty, academic and non-academic staff, and other key personnel from the institute. In her presentation, Dr. Tiwari underscored the importance of equipping the younger generation with a broad set of skills to meet future demands. She highlighted the role of pre-vocational exposure as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP-2020), emphasizing its value in connecting classroom learning with real-world, practical applications. Dr. Tiwari also advocated for an education system that integrates traditional values with 21st-century knowledge, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world. She stressed the importance of vocational education at the middle stage, giving students exposure to industries that offer significant growth opportunities. Additionally, she called for counseling both parents and teachers to move away from stereotypical thinking, encouraging a more open approach that allows students to explore general, vocational, and art-integrated education. This holistic approach, she concluded, is crucial for shaping well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in a rapidly changing world.

The Awareness Programme for Key Functionaries of Vocational Education, based on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, for the Western Region (PAC Code 21.23E), was held from September 2 to 4, 2024. Key functionaries, including officials from the State Department of Education of the western states were invited. 30 participants attended the programme—18 from Gujarat and 12 from Maharashtra. The programme was inaugurated by Dr Deepak Paliwal, Joint Director, PSSCIVE who outlined the objectives, followed by the programme coordinator explaining the schedule and topics to be covered. Participants were introduced to he implementation strategies of NEP 2020 and NCFSE 2023. Faculty members Dr. V. S. Mehrotra, Dr. V. K. Jain, Dr. Saurabh Prakash, Dr. Munesh Chandra, Dr. Pinki Khanna, Dr. Pravin Mahamuni, and Dr. Deepak Shudhalwar conducted technical sessions focused on these key topics. To assess the programme's effectiveness, pre-tests and post-tests were administered, and feedback from participants was collected. The participants expressed how the programme had benefited them. Dr. Deepak Shudhalwar, Professor and Head of the Department of Engineering and Technology, coordinated the programme.

Awareness Programme for Key Functionaries on Implementation of Vocational Education as per National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 for Northern Region : 2 to 4 September 2024 The Awareness Programme for Key Functionaries on the Implementation of Vocational Education, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, for the Northern region, was held from September 2nd to 4th, 2024, at PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal. A total of 36 key functionaries participated from four northern states, with 13 from Uttar Pradesh, 5 from Uttarakhand, 10 from Delhi, and 8 from Haryana. The programme focused on the implementation of vocational education, covering topics such as re-imagining vocational education and training in schools under NEP 2020, an overview of vocational education in India, the role of key functionaries, and vocational education implementation for middle (Grades 6 to 8) and secondary (Grades 9 to 12) stages. Other key sessions included discussions on student support systems, assessment and evaluation, the digitization of vocational education administration, and leveraging ICT through AR/VR for awareness. Participants were also introduced to various forms of work (life forms, machines and materials and human services) in vocational education, the role and functions of PSSCIVE, skilling adults and out-of-school children through the Skill Hub Initiative, schemes for skill development, and the provision of bagless days and fun-based activities, as outlined in NEP 2020. During the programme, participants also had the opportunity to visit the Institute’s well-equipped vocational laboratories.

Training Programme for Vocational Teachers for the Job Roles under Food Processing Sector: 9 to 13 September 2024 A training programme for vocational teachers specializing in job roles within the Food Processing sector was held from September 9 to 13, 2024, at PSSCIVE, Bhopal. The programme aimed to provide both theoretical knowledge and substantial practical exposure, equipping educators with the skills needed to effectively impart up-to-date industry knowledge in this dynamic field. The training attracted 20 participants from various states, including Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Kerala, fostering a vibrant learning environment that encouraged cross-learning. Through group discussions and hands-on practical exercises, participants actively engaged in the sessions. The programme equipped vocational teachers with specialized knowledge and teaching methodologies tailored for the Food Processing sector, resulting in enhanced instructional skills, updated industry insights, and the ability to create effective practical learning environments. This empowered educators to better prepare students for successful careers in food processing job roles.

The Department of Home Science and Hospitality Management , conducted a five-days working group meeting from 05 to 09 August 2024 at PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education (PSSCIVE), Bhopal. The meeting was organized with the objective of developing content for the Repository on Traditional Textiles of India, a project aimed at preserving and documenting the country's diverse and rich textile heritage. The meeting saw the participation of various experts, including subject matter specialists in textile and techniques, as well as technical experts skilled in digital documentation and repository management. The experts engaged in thorough discussions, focusing on several key areas: identifying and categorizing traditional textiles, formulating content that covers scope, techniques, and cultural significance and establishing strategies for the documentation and archiving of the textiles.

Organisation of Hindi Pakhwada at PSSCIVE, Bhopal: 17 September 2024 The PSS Central Institute of Vocational Education inaugurated Hindi Pakhwada on 17th September 2024, with Prof. Jyotsna Tiwari, Professor from the Department of Education in Arts & Aesthetics, NCERT, as the Chief Guest. Dr. R.K. Pathak, the Coordinator of Hindi Pakhwada, addressed the faculty and staff, outlining the various competitions scheduled to take place during the celebration of Hindi Pakhwada. He encouraged everyone to actively participate in these competitions, emphasizing the importance of collective involvement for promoting the use of the Hindi language.

Release of Career Guidance Book with 500 Career Cards on 29th July 2024 The Ministry of Education, Government of India celebrated the 4th anniversary of the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 with Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2024 in New Delhi’s Manekshaw Centre Auditorium, New Delhi on 29th July 2024. Hon’ble Minister of State for Education & Minister of State (IC) and Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Shri Jayant Chaudhary and Hon’ble Minister of State for Education and Development of North Eastern Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar were present at the event. Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of Higher Education; Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy; academicians, Vice Chancellors of the universities, officials, and students, also attended the event. Besides the release of various teaching-learning resources, the Ministers also launched Career Guidance Guidelines, a massive library of over 500 career cards developed by the Government in collaboration with the UNICEF, New Delhi.

Release of Guidelines for Implementation of Activities for 10 Bagless Days on the 4th Anniversary of NEP 2020 by the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India on 29th July 2024 The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommends that all students will participate in a 10-day bagless period during Grades 6-8 where they will intern with local experts such as carpenters, gardeners, potters, artists, and others. In pursuance of the above recommendation, the Government in consultation with concerned stakeholders has developed guidelines for 10 bagless days. The Ministry of Education, Government of India released the Guidelines document for the “Implementation of Activities during 10 Bagless Days” during the middle stage (Grades 6 to 8) for promoting experiential and fun-based learning in schools. The guidelines were released by Minister of State for Education, Shri Jayant Chaudhary in New Delhi on 29th July 2024 on the occasion of the 4th Anniversary of the NEP 2020.