The education system in Himachal Pradesh is set for significant transformation as schools adopt a new teaching model that emphasizes conceptual clarity and aims to minimize rote learning. The Himachal Pradesh School Education Board has initiated the implementation of competency-based teaching strategies designed to strengthen students” understanding rather than mere memorization.
To kick off this transition, the Board organized a three-day workshop titled “Parikh” at its headquarters in Dharamshala. Approximately 90 educators from across the state participated, focusing on enhancing classroom questioning techniques and developing models for competency-based assessments. The training aimed to encourage teachers to implement innovative teaching methods that promote analytical and critical thinking among students.
According to Board Secretary Dr Major Vishal Sharma, this initiative represents a concerted effort to modernize school education in line with the vision of the National Education Policy, which advocates for experiential and understanding-based learning. Dr Sharma noted that experts from Parakh, the national assessment body under the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), provided guidance to teachers on crafting competency-driven lesson plans and examination papers.
Furthermore, Dr Sharma indicated that the Board plans to reform examination formats. Beginning with the March examinations, there will be a greater focus on multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to better assess students” comprehension and reasoning skills. Additionally, question papers will be issued in A, B, and C series to enhance transparency and reduce the likelihood of malpractice.
Education officials are optimistic that the shift towards competency-based education will not only deepen students” understanding of core concepts but also better equip them for competitive examinations and future academic pursuits. The Board intends to conduct similar training sessions in various districts in the upcoming months to ensure the consistent rollout of the new teaching model across all government and private schools in the state.
