New NCERT course: Teachers to receive counseling training—which three areas will be the focus?

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has taken a significant step by announcing the launch of a 'Diploma Course in Guidance and Counselling' (DCGC) for school teachers and professionals in the counselling field. The objective is to train teachers and other education professionals to understand and address the academic, socio-emotional, and ethical issues faced by students.

This announcement follows a report highlighting that 85 percent of students in classes 6 to 12 are experiencing stress. Starting next year, the course will be conducted at six NCERT centres: Delhi, Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Mysuru, and Shillong. Each centre will offer 50 seats. Once NCERT transitions into a university, these centres will be upgraded to colleges, and the number of seats will be increased in the subsequent phase.

**Focus on Three Key Areas in the Curriculum**

*   **Academic Issues:** Focus on learning difficulties, challenges related to the learning process, and guidance for academic progress.

*   **Socio-Emotional Issues:** Understanding challenges related to students' emotions, behaviour, and social relationships.

*   **Ethical Issues:** Assisting students in making sound decisions, understanding responsibility, and developing positive behaviour.

**One-Year Course Divided into Three Phases**

The diploma course, set to begin next year, is structured into three phases: a six-month distance learning component (January–June 2027), a three-month face-to-face session (July–September), and a three-month internship in the student's home city (October–December). According to officials, the problems faced by students in schools today extend beyond academics or exam pressure; they often grapple with career uncertainty, peer comparison, a lack of self-confidence, and emotional challenges. In many instances, there is a need to listen to students attentively, understand their concerns, and provide appropriate guidance. This course aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills to address these challenges effectively.

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