If you’re working in education right now, you’ve probably heard a lot about the changes coming to NEP 2020 and 2030. This new policy is shaping how schools will teach, assess and support students over the next decade. But staying ahead isn’t just about waiting for new rules to arrive. Schools need to start making smart changes today to keep up and provide the best opportunities for students. In this article, let’s break down what NEP 2020 expects from schools and talk about steps you can take now to prepare for the future.
Understand NEP 2020 and its key objectives
The National Education Policy 2020 is India’s major step towards shaping how students learn and how teachers teach. It is designed to move away from older systems that focused heavily on memory. Instead, it encourages learning that is practical, flexible and more connected to real life.
The overarching goal of NEP 2020 is to ensure that every child, wherever they come from, has access to good quality education. The policy also wants students to think more critically, be more creative, and explore different subjects based on their interests. That means there’s more room for things like art, sports, and even vocational training in school, so students can develop real-world skills, not just score marks.
NEP 2020 It also pushes to reduce the heavy curriculum load. The idea is to focus more on learning and problem solving. It encourages education in multiple languages ​​and Use of technology To reach more students, especially in rural and remote areas.
At its core, the policy seeks to create confident, well-rounded learners who are future-ready but still connected to India’s rich languages ​​and culture. It’s about giving students the freedom to learn in the way that works best for them while equipping them with skills that really matter.
Strategic goals to 2030
What the NEP wants to achieve by 2030 in the education sector is:
School education
Universal Enrollment
The ultimate goal is to ensure that every child in India is enrolled in school. The plan is to reach 100% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) from pre-school to secondary education. This means that no child should be left behind, and education should be accessible to all.
Basic Literacy and Numeracy
NEP has a strong focus on getting the fundamentals right. By 2025, it aims to ensure that every child can read, write and do basic mathematics by the end of Grade 3. This goal is central to building a strong foundation for future education.
Revival of curriculum
A major change is taking place in the way students learn. The traditional 10+2 structure is replaced by a new one 5+3+3+4 system. This model is consistent with how children grow and learn. It encourages critical thinking, flexibility, creativity and a more holistic development approach rather than just rote memorization.
Language policy
Language plays a major role in learning. The NEP encourages the use of the mother tongue or regional language through instruction at least through grade 5, and preferably through grade 8. This helps children to understand concepts better and be more connected to their roots. At the same time, students will also be encouraged to learn multiple languages ​​to develop communication skills for a global future.
Higher education
Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER)
Another major goal is to enroll more young people in colleges and universities. The NEP seeks to increase the GER in higher education to 50% by 2035. This means that half of all young adults should participate in some form of higher education, including vocational and online programs.
Institutional restructuring
To strengthen research and innovation, the NEP proposed the establishment of a National Research Foundation. The body will support quality research in the fields and help institutions develop a strong research culture.
Multidisciplinary Education
NEP encourages universities and colleges to offer a mix of subjects, from arts and sciences Vocational and skill oriented courses. Students will have more flexibility in choosing what they want to learn. This approach will help build well-rounded individuals who are ready for multiple careers.
Sanctions and governance
To maintain high standards, the NEP calls for a better accreditation system. Institutions will be encouraged to become more independent, with quality checks, performance tracking and transparent systems for governance.
Teacher education
Minimum qualifications
NEP sets a clear objective for teacher qualification. By 2030, the minimum teaching requirement in schools will be a 4-year integrated B.ED. The program aims to ensure that every teacher enters the profession with a strong educational foundation and the right skills.
Continuous professional development
Learning should not stop for teachers either. NEP promotes regular training and development programs to help teachers stay up-to-date with teaching methods, classroom technologies and subject knowledge.
National Professional Standards for Teachers
To maintain consistency and quality in teaching, the policy also talks about creating a set of professional standards for teachers. These will guide what teachers expect in terms of planning, instruction, ethics and student engagement.
Phased Implementation: Key Priority Actions
1. Early Phase Actions (2020–2025)
The first phase of NEP 2020 focuses on establishing the systems and structures that will enable future reforms. It is about preparing the foundation rather than accelerating major changes. During this phase, efforts are directed towards spreading awareness, improving faculty and institutional capacity, and building a strong digital and policy framework.
2. Expansion and Operationalization (2025-2030)
The second phase of education reform is about taking initial ideas and pilots from the early years and implementing them on a much larger scale. This is where the changes become part of the daily practice. The focus is on reaching more students, strengthening the system, and ensuring that everyone is truly supported.
Stopping thoughts
NEP 2020 offers a clear path, but it’s up to schools to start following it. Waiting for a deadline won’t help. Small changes today like better teacher support, lighter curriculum, and more flexible classrooms can set the right pace. Focus on what helps students learn better and feel more involved. Over time, these efforts will create stronger schools and better futures.
Last updated on November 19, 2025
Parchi Singh | VP – Academics
Prachi Singh is a highly accomplished educationist with over 16 years of experience in the edtech industry. Currently, she plays a leading role at Xtramarks, leading content strategy and curriculum development initiatives that shape the future of education…Read more
