The Uttar Pradesh Board (UPMSP) has made an important announcement for students across the state. From the academic year 2026-27, all students joining Class 9 in schools affiliated with the UP Board must choose at least one vocational subject. This new rule will also change how Class 10 board exams are conducted starting from 2028 and Class 12 board exams from 2030. The main goal is to give students practical skills early on, preparing them better for future jobs and careers.
New Rule for Class 9 (Starting 2026-27)
Starting with the 2026-27 school year, students enrolling in Class 9 in any UP Board-affiliated school will need to pick a vocational subject. This means they will learn skills that can help them get jobs or start their own work later. This is in addition to their regular subjects like Hindi, a second language, Mathematics (or Home Science), Science, and Social Science. The aim is to add practical learning to the usual academic studies, giving students a more well-rounded education.
Changes in Class 10 and 12 Board Exams
Because vocational subjects are now compulsory, the board exams will also change. These changes are planned years in advance to allow everyone – students, teachers, and schools – enough time to prepare for the new system.
Class 10 Board Exams (from 2028)
From the year 2028, students taking the Class 10 board exam will be tested in seven subjects. This is one more subject than the current six. The extra subject will be the compulsory vocational one that they chose in Class 9. This means the vocational subject will count towards their final marks in the Class 10 board examination.
Class 12 Board Exams (from 2030)
For Class 12 (Intermediate) board exams, starting from 2030, students will face exams in six subjects. This is also an increase from the current five subjects. The added subject will reflect their vocational learning from Class 9 onwards and will be an official part of their Class 12 board assessment.
Why This New Education Policy?
UP Board officials explained that these changes are designed to bring “skill-based learning” into schools much earlier. Skill-based learning means teaching practical abilities and knowledge that are directly useful for different jobs or professions. This gives students “practical exposure,” helping them learn by doing and applying knowledge, rather than just by reading books.
The main reasons for this new education policy are:
- To make students more “employable.” This means they will have practical skills that employers are looking for, which can help them find jobs more easily after finishing school.
- To encourage “hands-on learning.” This way of learning is often more engaging and helps students understand and remember things better, as they get to practice what they learn.
- To match new education goals. This decision is part of larger education reforms in India. These reforms focus on making school education more relevant and useful for students' future lives and potential careers.
What Schools Need to Do
To put this new policy into action, all schools connected with the UP Board will need to make some important preparations. These steps will happen over the next few years to ensure a smooth transition:
- Update Course Materials: Schools will need to create or find new books and lesson plans specifically for the vocational subjects.
- Train Teachers: Teachers will receive special training to effectively teach these new vocational subjects and guide students in practical skills.
- Change How Exams Are Done: The methods for assessing and evaluating students’ vocational skills will be updated and developed.
This major step by the UP Board aims to ensure students receive a complete education. They will gain both strong academic knowledge and valuable job-ready skills, preparing them better for their future.
