Assessing the Effectiveness of Education Policy in Addressing Skill Gaps and Enhancing Employability

Abstract

The National Education Policy (NEP) was implemented in India to revamp the education system in order to better cater to the demands of the 21st century, with a focus on holistic development, flexibility, and innovation. Potential outcomes of the NEP may involve alterations in curriculum structure, a heightened emphasis on vocational training and skill enhancement, enhancements in teacher education and professional growth, and initiatives to foster equality and inclusivity in education. Nevertheless, a comprehensive evaluation and analysis would be necessary to fully comprehend the impact of the NEP and how effectively it is being executed, along with its real-world consequences. It is imperative to refer to recent reports, studies, or government updates for a more precise evaluation of the current impact of the NEP. This research seeks to evaluate the efficacy of educational policy interventions in addressing skill gaps and improving employability in the job market. Given the rapid advancements in technology and changes in the global economic scenario, the demand for specific skills is constantly evolving, presenting challenges for educational institutions to keep up. This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of education policy data with qualitative assessments of stakeholder viewpoints. Qualitative evaluations will consist of conducting interviews and focus groups with important stakeholders such as policymakers, educators, employers, and recent graduates. These qualitative perspectives will offer detailed viewpoints on the advantages, disadvantages, and obstacles in implementing current education policies to address skill gaps and enhance workforce preparedness. The results of this research are intended to guide data-driven policy suggestions for enhancing education systems to effectively address the needs of the changing labor market, ultimately leading to continuous economic development, decreased unemployment rates, and enhanced prospects for individuals to secure meaningful and satisfying job opportunities. Keywords: National Education Policy, Skill Development, Employability, Bridging Gap