NCERT to Introduce Diploma in Guidance and Counselling for Educators

Introduction of the Diploma Course

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is preparing to launch a diploma program focused on Guidance and Counselling. This initiative, aimed at school teachers and counselling professionals, is set to begin in January 2027. The course's primary aim is to equip educators with the skills necessary to tackle the academic, socio-emotional, and ethical challenges that students encounter.

Purpose of the Diploma Course

The NCERT's diploma course is designed to help alleviate the academic and social pressures that students face today. Students often deal with various stressors, including career-related anxieties, peer comparisons in academics and social status, and the pressures of examinations.

By actively listening to these concerns and providing appropriate guidance, many of these issues can be effectively addressed. This course aims to prepare teachers to manage these challenges.

Curriculum Focus

The curriculum will focus on training teachers to navigate the academic, social, and emotional difficulties students encounter. It seeks to cultivate skills that enable educators to assist students in making informed decisions, understanding their responsibilities, and promoting positive behavior.

Course Structure and Internship

The Diploma in Guidance and Counselling will span one year and is divided into three segments. It will be delivered in a hybrid format, incorporating an internship. The initial six months will be conducted through distance learning, followed by three months of in-person instruction, and concluding with a three-month internship. Teachers can opt to complete their internship in their local district.

Launch Locations and Capacity

NCERT plans to roll out this diploma course at six centers located in Delhi, Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, and Shillong. Each center will accommodate 50 students for this program. Importantly, as NCERT evolves into a university, these centers will transition into colleges, which will likely increase the number of available seats.