Youth Education and Skill Levels
摘要
Harnessing India's demographic dividend involves investing in young people's human capital, focusing on skills and technical training for employment. The education system aims to improve access, quality, and inclusiveness. Primary and upper primary education show commitment with rising Net Enrolment Rates (NER), while secondary education faces high dropout rates needing attention. Higher education's Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) is increasing, narrowing gender gaps, but achieving NEP 2020's 50% GER target by 2035 requires accelerated efforts. Indian universities, despite academic strengths, rank poorly globally due to limited international presence. Gender, rural–urban, regional, and economic disparities in educational attainment need addressing for equal opportunities. Technical education is more prevalent in urban areas, certain regions, and higher-income households. Gender gaps in vocational education are evident, with Western regions leading and the Northeast requiring targeted support. ICT skill disparities highlight the need for digital literacy interventions. Analysing the labour force across educational and skill levels, the chapter provides insights into youth employment dynamics, exploring aspirations and the role of apprenticeships in transitioning from school to work.