Literacy, in simple terms refers to the ability to read and write. Literacy also includes knowledge of the real world, technological awareness and skills that enhance our day-to-day interactions with other people.
What is skill development?
Skill development refers to the identification of skill gaps and developing the existing skills to enable a person to achieve his/her goals. The current generation lacks the necessary skills and there is a humongous gap between the skills existing in a person and the skills demanded by the industry.
Why is skill development important?
Skill development is important in the overall development of a student.
For opportunitiesbetter There are a few students who may not be academically strong. Introducing skill training and encouraging the weak students will help in providing equal opportunities.
An idea of different career prospects Introducing skill development initiatives for the school students will help them to get an understanding of different career options. This will help them to plan their future accordingly.
Preparing for future The process of skill development introduces the students to employability-skills at a very young age. This ensures the right development of the students.
Personal development Learning skills will not only increase the opportunities but will also empower an individual. Skills like networking and communication go a long way in aiding the overall development of a person.
Nurturing talents Skill development helps to identify, develop and nurture talents/skills in a given field.
Skill development in India:
Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) is responsible for coordinating skill development activities in the country. It has supported various organisations like:
National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) NSDC aims to promote skill development in the country by establishing institutes across the country.
National Skill Development Agency (NSDA) NSDA aims to coordinate the efforts of the government and the private sector and aid in skill development.
Skill development in the classroom
A student spends maximum of his/her time in the classroom where knowledge is imparted, and skill development occurs. Teachers play a key role in ensuring that students learn everything possible and develop their knowledge. Skill development can take place in the classroom by engaging the students in the learning process. Teachers can make use of concepts like experiential learning, project-based learning, activities for students, and peer to peer interaction.
Skills that need attention:
There are many skills that a person needs to inculcate, of which there are skills that need to be given priority as these skills direct a person’s life and success. Some of these skills are:
Communication
Communication is the exchange of information between two or more people. Communication as a skill is essential to convey ideas.
Problem-solving
Problem solving is the process of finding solutions to complex issues. Problem-solving skills help students to tackle day-to-day issues in a better manner.
Teamwork
Teamwork refers to getting along with people and working together to achieve common goals. This skill is essential to develop interpersonal skills and leadership qualities in students.
Adaptability
Adaptability is a quality of being able to adjust with people or new conditions. Students should be able to adapt themselves in different situations.
Stress-management
This refers to active management of stress by applying various techniques like meditation, relaxation, and exercising. Stress management plays a key role in today’s world.
Creativity
Creativity is the use of imagination and ideas to create something new. Creativity helps students to come up with newer ideas. This also enables a student to take initiative.
IT skills
IT stands for Information Technology. Having a basic idea of computer and smart devices is an important skill in today’s tech-enabled world.
Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand other people. It also refers to looking at a situation from different perspectives.
India has a literacy rate of around 70%, which is less than some of the least developed countries like Afghanistan and Cambodia. If the required skills are developed from the right age, the nation would soon see a development in its literacy rate as well.