Himachal schools get CBSE makeover

The Himachal Pradesh government has announced plans to introduce the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum in 100 government senior secondary schools from the next academic session. This initiative aims to enhance educational standards and better prepare students for national-level competitive examinations.

Under the plan, at least one CBSE-affiliated school will be established in each assembly constituency, ensuring equitable access to quality education across the state. The CBSE curriculum is recognized for its national benchmarking, which is expected to strengthen the academic competitiveness of Himachali students and open avenues for higher education and professional careers.

To implement this reform, a separate sub-cadre will be created for these schools. Serving teachers will have the option to join the CBSE sub-cadre, and the selection of principals, teachers, and non-teaching staff will be based on merit, considering academic excellence and co-curricular involvement.

These CBSE-affiliated government schools will function as day-boarding institutions, focusing not only on academics but also on nutrition, sports, arts, skilling, remedial teaching, counseling, career guidance, mentoring, and coaching. This move is expected to promote healthy competition between schools affiliated with the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education and those under CBSE, encouraging both students and teachers to strive for improved performance.