Kochi: To encourage experiential learning in line with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020-based curriculum, majority of CBSE schools in the district have established composite skill labs (CSL). The labs would help students to have hands-on experience in areas such as robotics, hydroponics and electronics, among others. The initiative is for students from Class VI.
There are 70 CBSE schools under Kochi Metro Sahodaya. Of these, nearly 10 schools have opened CSLs as part of their curriculum this academic year, while the rest are planning to introduce them from the next academic year as mandated by CBSE.
The labs are primarily set up to introduce vocational education prescribed in Kaushal Bodh textbooks published by NCERT.
At the recently concluded CBSE principals’ conference in Kochi, Biswajit Saha, director (Skill Education), CBSE, reiterated that all affiliated schools must establish CSLs before the 2026-2027 academic year. The board has advised schools to create either a 600 sq ft lab for Classes VI–XII or two separate 400 sq ft labs — one each for Classes VI–X and XI–XII.
“Initially, we are focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. Although CBSE recommends training from Class VI, experts advised us to train students from Class III, and we are following that,” said Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Tripunithura, principal Priya C Pillai.
Kochi Metro Sahodaya president and Sree Sarada Vidyalaya, Kalady, principal Deepa Chandran said CSLs would play a key role in transforming classroom learning. “In our school, students will first pitch project ideas to teachers before implementation,” she said. The lab set up at the school includes facilities for 3D printing, product design and projects related to sustainable development goals (SDGs). Chandran said the school aims to use the lab to promote creativity, collaboration and problem-solving among students.
Rajagiri Public School, Kalamassery, has initiated the process of setting up its CSL and has begun conducting workshops in puppetry, carpentry, pottery, gardening and storytelling, aligning with Kaushal Bodh. “These activities help children connect learning with real-world applications and discover new interests,” said principal Ruby Antony.
Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Vaduthala, is also preparing CSL with provisions for AI and robotics training. Some schools in the city have integrated their CSLs as extensions of existing Atal Tinkering Labs to maximise resources and promote interdisciplinary learning. However, many school authorities said they were still awaiting clarity from the board on evaluation methods for skill education.
Authorities believe that CSLs will have transformative effects on learning and help students develop essential 21st-century skills, including creativity, critical thinking and collaboration, complementing academic learning with real-world competencies.
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