From Degrees to Skills: India’s Education Shift Gains Momentum
As employers prioritize practical knowledge and NEP 2020 drives reform, traditional college degrees face an identity crisis
New Delhi: June 28, 2025
In classrooms and boardrooms across India, a quiet revolution is unfolding. The belief that a university degree is the one and only pathway to success is giving way to a new emphasis on skill-based learning. Driven by market needs, educational technology innovations, and the monumental National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 the shift is altering the educational and employment landscape in the country.
According to a recent survey, more than 70 % of Indian employers value relevant skills more than a formal qualification. Another report found that 93 % of HR decision-makers believe degrees are no longer a guarantee of readiness for the workplace.
Another report found that 93% of HR decision-makers believe degrees are no longer a guarantee of readiness for the workplace.
Keshav Goyal, a B.Tech student from Agra, puts it candidly:
“A degree today feels like just a ticket to enter the race but it’s the skills that decide how far you’ll go. That’s why I’ve added a data analytics certification to my toolkit, even as I pursue engineering. It’s not extra anymore it’s essential.”
Suryansh Kumar Singh, also a B.Tech student, observes:
“Degrees may get you shortlisted, but it’s your skills that seal the deal. That’s why my focus isn’t just on lectures and labs anymore certifications, side projects, and internships are just as important as classroom learning now.”
Education Policy Rewrites the Rulebook
The National Education Policy of 2020, is presently catalyzing the rapid evolution seen in education. The Policy allows for flexible learning with multiple exit options and vocational training within academic learning.
States are already doing:
The Government of Telangana has mandated over twenty credits in a program for any skill-based learning at the undergraduate levels.
Mumbai University plans to have a 50-50 division of theory and practical work by 2026.
Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University (DSEU) started modular certificate and diploma programs based on industry’s needs.
Magadh University and SGSITS continue on the trend by developing unique centers to provide training that is industry-integrated for students and entrepreneurs.
Edtech and micro-credentials are continuing to ascend.
India’s e-learning market size is skyrocketing, with most popular Edtech platforms including UpGrad, Coursera, and Simplilearn rolling out focused data analytics, AI, digital and social media marketing, and other targeted programs as specific-time length, bite-sized, affordable certifications. Such programs are also gaining prevalence with college graduates looking to “top-up” their skills.
Recently, a survey by The Hans India reported 95% of education leaders surveyed in India believe micro-credentials are helpful for employability; this is above the global average of 87%.
Is the College Degree Dead? Not Yet.
Since we last wrote about alternatives to traditional college degrees, we’re witnessing changes in higher education response. Traditional B.A., B.Sc., and B.Com. programs are evolving into new degrees that add new modules in coding, communication, design thinking, and entrepreneurship.
Looking Forward: The Future is Hybrid
The next education trends will be the hybrid courses that fuse the university degree with real-time skill building and lifelong learning.
In fact, the World Economic Forum recently reported that 50% of all employees will require reskilling by 2025, and with India poised to take the lead as a knowledge economy, the timing is right. The e-learning market is forecasted to surpass $29 billion by 2030 with the country’s large youth population and mobile access to information supporting the growth.
Ultimately, delineated on the wall is plain to see: knowledge without application is no longer enough. Expedition in a fast-paced world where it is the skills that open the doors and not the degree.
As India embarks on a transition to a knowledge economy, the education system is evolving to fit the moment – one certificate, one coding course, one student at a time.
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