Assam: NSQF textbook shortage affects classes; teachers flag issue

Even after the academic session has begun and half of April is over, students across several schools in Assam are studying without textbooks for National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) elective subjects. The Vocational Teachers' Association of Assam claims that this has disrupted the rollout of skill-based education. In a post on platform 'X', the association has tagged Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, State Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, and the official handle of Samagra Shiksha Assam while flagging this issue.

According to teachers, the delay is reportedly linked to private agencies handling printing and distribution. NSQF subjects require structured content for both theory and practical training. However, in the absence of textbooks, teachers are forced to rely on limited notes and create improvised material.

Teachers are worried that this can slow down syllabus completion and reduce the effectiveness of vocational courses. Students are also falling behind, especially in subjects that depend on continuous practice and conceptual clarity.

Also read Assam Women’s University: From handful of students to robots in village schools, AWU is just getting started

Success amid teacher crisis

Assam HSLC results 2026 were announced on April 10 and vocational (NSQF) subjects recorded the highest number of letter marks, with 29,246 students achieving top grades. Teachers believe that the credit goes to practical, skill-based nature of these subjects. The Assam HSLC 2026 exams saw a pass percentage of 65.62%, with boys at 67.78% and girls at 63.96%. Jyotirmay Das topped the Assam 10th exam, followed by Akankha Bhuyan and Jia Farah Islam. Exams were held from February 10 to 27.

Government intervention needed

Vocational teachers in Assam government schools alleged that despite their contribution, they faced exploitation by third-party agencies. They claimed their contracts ended on March 31, 2026, and they were asked not to attend schools from April 1, yet many continued teaching without pay. Since their grievances continues to remain unaddressed by authorities, they have now urged the state government and education officials to intervene and remove third-party intermediaries from the vocational education system.