BRIDGING SKILLS AND SCHOOLING: A CASE STUDY ON VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PRACTICES

Vocational education has become an integral component of modern schooling, aiming to bridge the gap between academic learning and the practical skills required in the workforce. This study aims to explore these crucial questions by studying the availability and nature of vocational education in schools of Mokokchung Town, examining how well the courses align with students interests, evaluating the practical components of these programs, and identifying any barriers faced by learners.It also seeks to assess how closely current vocational education practices adhere to the principles outlined in the NEP 2020, and to recommend actionable measures to improve the delivery and impact of these courses. The study uses a descriptive case study method with a mixed-methods design, combining quantitative data from students and qualitative insights from teacher interviews. The analysis revealed several recurring themes related to curriculum delivery, resource availability, student engagement, teacher training, and career readiness. There was a strong demand for refresher courses, especially those that covered emerging technologies and modern teaching strategies. Students expressed a desire for a wider variety of vocational courses that align with evolving career opportunities and personal interests. While traditional streams were available, there was significant demand for courses like graphic design, digital marketing, mobile repair, and fashion design.