ANNOUNCEMENTS
This study explores the integration of Life Skills Education (LSE) among adolescents in government schools across Madhya Pradesh, India, through a comprehensive baseline assessment. Using a mixed-methods approach, it investigates adolescents' proficiency across seven core life skills: problem-solving, emotional regulation, adaptability, communication, cooperation, goal-setting, and assertiveness. Quantitative data were collected from 245 students in Grades 7–9 using a structured toolkit, while qualitative insights were derived from focus group discussions and key informant interviews with teachers, parents, school officials, and community stakeholders. The findings reveal varying levels of life skill competencies, with significant gender-based differences and systemic challenges such as limited teacher training, cultural barriers, and weak parental engagement. Additionally, adolescents’ awareness of gender equity, financial literacy, legal rights, and sexual and reproductive health was found to be limited. The study highlights critical gaps between policy intent and classroom practice and provides evidence-based recommendations to strengthen life skills programming. It emphasizes the need for localized, inclusive, and participatory educational models aligned with NEP 2020 and SDG 4.7 to foster holistic adolescent development.
Keywords: Life Skills Education, Adolescents, Madhya Pradesh, Emotional Regulation, Problem-Solving, Adaptability, Communication, Gender Equity, Financial Literacy, Legal Awareness, NEP 2020, SDG 4.7, Government Schools, Baseline Assessment, Mixed-Methods Research
